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36-2027 – Judy McKenzie – Blooming patterns
September 5 – 11 2027
An Introduction to Nerikomi
Handbuilding, Porcelain. For all
Blooming Patterns: An Introduction to Nerikomi is a handbuilding workshop dedicated to the transformation of porcelain into pattern, colour and form. The course invites participants to discover an inspiring technique for creating luminous, beautifully patterned ceramic objects.
Techniques taught
The course begins by colouring porcelain with ceramic stains. Starting with primary colours, each student will create a variety of coloured porcelain blocks and use them to make the canes needed for their Nerikomi patterns. There is seemingly no end to the possible colour combinations! Students can use their individual colour preferences to create their own unique colourways. Later, students move on to creating different patterns using a selection of colours from their coloured porcelain blocks. Among others, this will include creating a striped cross section, a chevron pattern and a fine gradient between two colours. We will also use a hand-held extruder to make small chequerboard patterns. Students will learn to create several objects, including bowls and boxes, using the Nerikomi panels made during the course, which will be fired at the end of the workshop.
Teaching method
Judy McKenzie leads the group through detailed demonstrations on each part of the Nerikomi process, from blending stains with porcelain to creating the final pieces. She demonstrates all patterns, guides each student through the steps, and encourages them to use their imagination to develop unique canes. She will share advice on various additional topics, such as how to store patterns so they remain in optimal condition for later use. Besides the technical instruction, students will be able to discuss aesthetic choices, connect with fellow group members, and gather inspiration from the beautiful late-summer landscape around La Meridiana.
Logistics
Students arrive on Sunday, September 5, and departure will be on Saturday, September 11, 2027.
On every class day a delicious lunch will be served. At booking, you may select your preferred room type, choosing between: standard lodging, single or shared room; upgraded accommodation; private apartment. Please note that depending on the availability, certain types at times may not be offered.
If you need help to take your work with you, we can assist with arranging shipment through a professional shipping company.
The artist
Judy McKenzie`s love of ceramics prompted her to return to the subject later in life to pursue a degree. Loving every minute of this new venture, she graduated with a Masters in 2018 at the Royal College of Art (RCA). She has practiced Nerikomi ever since, describing the process as both frustrating and fascinating in equal measure. No two artists will approach the technique in the same way, and this unique aspect of the process continues to enthral her. Her exuberant work is inspired by the colours to be found in her garden and the world around her. She has travelled to China with the RCA and her work has travelled to among others Venice, while she has also been invited to appear in several publications on the subject.
| Artist | Judy McKenzie |
|---|---|
| Length of course | 5 working days in the studio |
| Level | For all levels |
| Technique | Handbuilding |
| Deposit for booking | Euro 500 |
| Workshop fee (without lodging) | Euro 1980 |
Workshop Fee & Lodging
The costs listed include both the workshop fee and the lodging:
15 MINUTES WALK FROM THE STUDIO
Standard accommodation in shared double room with shared bathroom. Final course cost: Euro 2210
Standard accommodation in single room with shared bathroom. Final course cost: Euro 2380
ON SITE
Upgraded accommodation in single room with private bathroom and A/C. Final course cost: Euro 2580
Upgraded accommodation in single room with double bed and private bathroom and A/C. Final course cost: Euro 2630
PRIVATE APARTMENT
A maximum 15 minute-walk from the studio, with one bedroom, kitchen, bathroom and outside space. Final course: Euro 2700
Course without lodging: Euro 1980
Additional Information
The workshop fee includes the following:
Tuition of 6 – 8 hours per day;
Studio open 11 hours per day;
All materials and firings;
Freshly prepared three course lunch with wine on all working days;
Welcome breakfast, Welcome and Final dinner;
Coffee break in the mornings and in the evenings.
Payment and Cancellation Policy
A deposit is required at registration. After submitting the registration form, you may proceed with the payment on-line. If you choose to pay by bank transfer, the registration will be confirmed once the deposit has been accredited in our banking account. The balance must be paid at the beginning of the course.
Cancellation
You may withdraw within 14 days of registration without incurring any penalties. In this case, the deposit will be fully refunded, in accordance with Articles 53 and following of the Italian Consumer Code and relevant EU consumer protection legislation. In the event of a dispute, the competent court is Florence, Italy. After the 14-day withdrawal period, no refund of the deposit will be issued.
If you cancel within 60 days prior to the course start date, you will receive a voucher for the deposit amount, minus a €50 administration fee. The voucher can be used for the current edition of the Programme or the edition held the following year.
Force majeure
If a course cannot be held due to unforeseen circumstances beyond our control, the deposit will be fully refunded.
If students must withdraw due to exceptional collective circumstances beyond their control, such as a pandemic or civil disorder, La Meridiana reserves the right to offer them a voucher for an alternative course. The deposit will be transferred to the new course.
