Introduction

Handbuilt Tableware: A broad introduction to handbuilding, focusing on tableware pieces – plates, bowls, mugs and platters. Students will learn the basics of working with clay, designing tableware and choosing the most appropriate approach/techniques of making for their specific designs. .

Techniques taught

For their tableware, students will learn the three main handbuilding techniques: pinching, coiling and slabwork, starting with the basics and then advancing to variations as they choose. We will look at additions that can be made to basic forms, both in a functional and decorative sense, and discuss the options and associated decisions. Students will then progress to designing and making a 5-piece set, choosing techniques and planning the shapes and sizes of each piece, studying how they interact and considering additions to enhance function and aesthetics.

Teaching method

Lisa will demonstrate each technique, often encouraging students to work alongside her as she does so, to grasp the physical specifics of making. Once the basics are understood, students will make their own pieces using each technique, with Lisa offering support and advice throughout.

Lisa’s teaching process is collaborative and non-prescriptive. Students will be encouraged to take creative, independent approaches to design and making, with aesthetics and function considered in whatever balance they choose. Weird, wild, wonky, heavily decorative and novelty-shaped pieces are just as welcome as sleek, simple or traditional shapes. There are infinite possibilities and plenty of time to explore them!

Logistics

On every classday, a delicious meal will be served. Lodging is included as well.  The last kiln opening will be in the morning of Saturday, therefore please plan your travels so to not leave La Meridiana before 9.30 am.

The artist

Lisa Ommanney is an Oxford based ceramic artist making functional and sculptural hand built pieces, with a focus on tableware. She studied Fine Art at London Guildhall University. In 2015, Lisa won the Jameson Works Bursary, and in the years since she has shown work in galleries including Thrown Contemporary, Lacey Contemporary and Kobi & Teal.
She works with Michelin-starred restaurants across the globe including Hide (London), Mirazur (France), Cycle (Tokyo), and Moss (Iceland). Her tableware has been included in multiple cookbooks and magazines. Chefs who have featured her work include Yotam Ottolenghi, Jamie Oliver, Meera Sodha, Anna Jones, Tom Kerridge, Mauro Colagreco and Ollie Dabbous. www.lisaommanney.com