43-2021 – Form & Decoration 2021
October 24 – December 18 2021
A two month long intensive course that aims to build a good foundation
Introduction
Form and Decoration is a course dedicated to throwing and firing functional ceramics, with a strong focus on decoration techniques.
Techniques
Continuous practice coupled with one-on-one attention from the instructors enables the ability to translate ideas into three dimensional objects. Exercises will aim to enhance skill and awareness, allowing participants to improve their pots in form and finish. In decoration, exercises aim to encourage thoughtful and controlled application of glaze and cover a wide range of decorative possibilities from work done with clay immediately after throwing to work done with glaze, simple and more complex. The practical work of the course is complemented by a series of six visual talks covering historical and contemporary aspects of ceramics.
Teaching method
The teachers divide their time between demonstrations for the group and, as necessary, one-to-one assistance. Students have a generous working space at their disposal. They will stay and study in the supportive environment of La Meridiana, with logistics like lodging, transportation and lunch taken care of.
Application and cost
Application is by written proposal. Please write to info@lameridiana.fi.it to find out about the cost and more.
The artists
Two ceramicists of wide experience tutor a group of maximum eight students. 
Pietro Elia Maddalena studied ceramics at the West Surrey College of Art & Design in England. After two more years of work at Dartington Workshop, he returned to Italy where in 1980 he established a studio in Certaldo, near Florence. Pietro is the founder and director of the International School of Ceramics LA MERIDIANA located in Tuscany, Italy. Also instructor and maker he says of himself : “ I am totally and continuously interested in the process of making. I see the craft object as a projection of the human spirit and the culture in which it was nurtured. In elaborating concept, material and process, my ultimate goal is the expression of beauty through sophisticated and sensual forms”. www.pietro.net 
Franco Rampi started working as a potter in 1981. After an apprenticeship in England and a cycle of studies in Italy, he went on to open his own studio in Tuscany. With his roots and training in wheel thrown production pottery, Franco’s personal works are individual in their form and idea, experimenting with unusual processes and combinations of clays and slips. He has been one of La Meridiana’s most treasured collaborators over the last decade. www.francorampi.it
| Artist: | Pietro Maddalena, Franco Rampi |
|---|---|
| Date: | October 24 – Decembre 18, 2021 |
| Length of course | 1 or more month |
| Technique: | Surface techniques, Throwing |
Info
The workshop fee includes the following:
Tuition of 6 – 8 hours per day;
Studio open 12 hours per day;
All materials and firings;
Lodging in single room;
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 - Refund 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.
Cancellations
You may withdraw within 14 days of registration without incurring in any penalties and will have the deposit fully refunded. No refund of deposits past 14 days of registration, pursuant to articles 53 and following of the EU consumer protection legislation.
If La Meridiana cannot hold the course due to unforeseen events beyond our control, La Meridiana reserves the right to offer a voucher for a different course of your choice. The voucher is valid for two years. The deposit will be transferred to the new course.
Safety
La Meridiana is equipped to comply with the current safety standards, including social distancing between people in and outside the studio. The building is sanitized and the daily maintenance of hygiene measures is guaranteed.
Please note that participants will be required to follow the security protocol and to comply with some simple precautions.