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9A-2026 – Franco Rampi – Throwing Marathon
February 22 – 28 2026
Unlimited clay and the wheel
Throwing. For all levels
Throwing Marathon – back to the starting line again! There have been many successful editions of this classic course. We spend five intensive days on the wheel, with tons of clay available. This workshop teaches you the essentials of throwing and helps you make things better, quicker and with more ease.
Techniques taught
Starting with a revision of the basics, the Throwing Marathon continues with demonstrations of different forms. We learn the techniques for making bowls, cups, plates, vases, lidded jars and pitchers. In addition, we cover techniques of finishing and refining including trimming, pulling handles, adding knobs or a thrown feet and much more! In this workshop we will be pulling and pushing – both the clay and your limits! Besides the shapes demonstrated in the classroom, students can find inspiration in the on-site ceramic gallery. Our collection displays a wide range of pieces of all shapes and styles.
Teaching method
In our Throwing Marathons, teaching consists of both group demonstrations and individual feedback. Our throwing instructors are carefully chosen for their high level of technical knowledge and ability to give clear and practical explanations to a group of students of varying skills. Throughout the well-structured program, each session provides new input and stimulus. After the demonstrations, students will have time to practice all techniques shown. Moreover, they will receive individual instruction and personalized advice to improve their throwing skills – independent of level. The Throwing Marathon does not include any firing but focusses entirely on the making. It opens up a perspective of worry-free training and experimenting – a great opportunity for real progress. After the course you will take home new skills, fresh inspiration and a notebook full of new ideas.
Logistics
Students arrive on Sunday 22 and departure will be on Saturday 28 February 2026. On all working days two coffee breaks and a freshly prepared lunch are provided by La Meridiana. At booking, you may select your preferred room type, choosing between Standard lodging, single and/ or shared room, and/ or Upgraded accommodation. Please note that depending on the availability, some options may not always be offered.
The instructor
Franco Rampi started working as a potter in 1978. After an apprenticeship in England and a cycle of studies in Italy he opened his own studio in Tuscany where he produces both functional objects in small series and one-off pieces. He works mainly in stoneware, whilst continuing his research on clays, slips and forms. He has taught workshops on throwing and glazing for many years, collaborating with La Meridiana since 2010. www.francorampi.it
| Artist | Franco Rampi |
|---|---|
| Lenght of the Course | 5 working days in the studio |
| Level | For all levels |
| Technique | Throwing |
| Deposit for booking | Euro 500 |
| Workshop fee (without lodging) | Euro 1630 |
Workshop fee & Lodging
The costs listed include both the workshop fee and the lodging:
15 MINUTES WALK FROM THE STUDIO
Standard accommodation in single room with shared bathroom. Final course cost Euro 2030
PRIVATE APARTMENT
Maximum 15 minutes walk from the studio, with one bedroom, kitchen, bathroom and outside space. Final course fee: Euro 2350
Course without lodging Euro 1630
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 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 Italian consumer legislation, in accordance with the EU consumer protection legislation. In the event of disputes, the competent court is Florence. If the workshop cannot be hold because of an insufficient number of students, the deposit will be fully reimbursed.
Force Majeure
Students must know that cancellations may occur due to events beyond our control (e.g. pandemic, civil disorder, medical or family issues of the instructor). In such case, La Meridiana reserves the right to offer a voucher for a different workshop of your choice. The voucher is valid for two years. The deposit will be transferred to the workshop of choice.
