Introduction

This course  presents a wide range of decoration techniqes in ceramics,  including the description and the preparation of the necessary materials. It  offers an introduction to the diverse ways clay surfaces can be modified and finished.

Techniques taught

There will be demonstrations of processes applicable to the whole range of clay surfaces: soft; leather-hard; dry; and biscuit fired. The potential of slips, oxides and glazes, as well as various tools and materials  will be shown and explored.
Following each demonstration participants will be given objects on which to experiment with their choice of the processes shown. The objects available for different processes will include press-moulded dishes, tiles and thrown forms. The practical work of the course will be supported by three visual talks, showing contemporary and historical examples of decoration.
The work produced will all be fired in reduction at Cone 10, but the processes shown are relevant at all temperatures of firing.

The Artist

John Colbeck has taught full and part time at Ceramics degree courses in the UK throughout his working life and was for many years Head of Ceramics at Bath Academy of Art and, in addition, has taught many short courses and given lectures and seminars in the UK and abroad. He is author of “Pottery, the Technique of Throwing” (1969), “Pottery, Techniques of Decoration” (1983) (both of these still available as Classic reprints from Axner Supplies USA) and “Pottery Materials” (1988). He produces unglazed, polished thrown forms in stoneware and porcelain.