Introduction

Colour and light: Celbrate the beauty and magic of colour and light, as it accentuates  form and energizes surfaces in translucent porcelain.

Tecniques taught

We will discuss the unique, light transmitting characteristics of vitreous porcelain and will follow up with an exploration of techniques used to incorporate colour and light into our artwork. Topics covered will include relief carving (lithophane), colour additions, coloured clay techniques and porcelain formulas. We will consider coloured, translucent porcelain in its many manifestations; sculpture, pottery (agateware or neriage), translucent lighting and jewelry.

Teaching method

Mornings will be devoted to exploration, demonstrations and technical discussions aimed at unlocking mysteries, expanding knowledge and empowering creativity. Afternoons will be devoted to making your quiet, personal experimentation. Technical guidance and assistance, whatever it takes to help you bring out the best will always be available.

Logistics

On every classday, a delicious meal will be served. Lodging is included as well. The workshop is suitable for all levels. A personal, well equipped working space in the main studio full of light is ad disposal for each student.

The artist

Curtis Benzle has developed and used colored, translucent porcelain for forty years.  His signature artworks are translucent, sculptural vessels and architectural lighting.  They are represented in major museums including the Metropolitan Museum of Art/NYC, Smithsonian Museum of American Art, Los Angeles County Museum of Art, Seto(Japan) Cultural Center and Taipei(Taiwan) County Yingge Ceramics Museum. Curtis has received Fellowships from the National Endowment for the Arts and the Ohio Arts Council. He is Professor Emeritus and former Chair of Dimensional Studies at the Columbus College of Art and Design (Columbus, OH).  Curtis is a former Trustee of the American Craft Council and past Board President and Executive Director Ohio Designer Craftsmen. www.benzleporcelain.com