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29-2026 – Franco Rampi & Zsófia Földvári – Summer Throwing
July 12- July 25 2026
Intensive training, comunity and fun
Throwing. For beginners and intermediate
Introduction
Summer throwing is an intensive throwing training, followed by glazing and decorating with much individual attention for each student.
Techniques taught
In Summer Throwing, we will explore the fundamental techniques of working with clay on the wheel. Practising different ways of manipulating clay, from preparation to throwing and finishing processes, will increase your familiarity with the medium. We will start with cylinders, then move on to making bowls, jugs and mugs. The methods taught will be completed by adding handles and spouts. The throwing section concludes with a review of trimming techniques. A related sequence of demonstrations will cover decorative processes with slip, as well as glazing. There will be several glazing days where students can gain confidence in this important step.
Teaching method
The participants will start with exhaustive demonstrations and then have ample time for training and working with the wheel. An important part of the course will be familiarising yourself with the various glazes and the glazing process itself. In Summer Throwing, students will learn to glaze confidently by dipping or pouring. We work with stoneware clay chosen for throwing, and bisque fire a selection of pieces. These are finished using reduction glazes from La Meridiana’s range, and are then reduction fired in the gas kiln to cone ten.
Logistics
On every classday, a delicious meal will be served. At booking, you may select your preferred room type, choosing between standard lodging, single room and/or upgraded accommodation. Please note that depending on the availability, certain types at times may not be offered.
Students will arrive on Sunday July 12 and leave on Saturday July 25 2026. Our last kiln opening will be on Saturday morning, so please plan your travel so as not to leave La Meridiana before 9.30 am.
This class is suitable for all levels.
The Artists
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
Zsófia Földvári grew up in Hungary. She graduated as a scientist, but after discovering a strong passion for clay, she changed direction and studied ceramics in Norway and Italy. Since 2023 she has worked at La Meridiana as a studio and teaching assistant and has participated in the training of students during the intensive course On Centre Fall. Zsófia enjoys making objects for comfortable use and quiet appreciation, preferring forms that follow a simple and harmonious geometry dictated by the natural gestures of the hand.
| Artist | Franco Rampi, Zsófia Földvári |
|---|---|
| Length of course | 10 working days in the studio |
| Technique | Throwing |
| Level | For all levels |
| Workshop fee (without lodging) | Euro 2980 |
| Deposit for booking | Euro 900 |
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 3440
Standard accommodation in single room with shared bathroom. Final course cost: Euro 3780
ON SITE
Upgraded accommodation in single room with ensuite bathroom. Final course cost: Euro 4180
Upgraded accommodation in single room with double bed and ensuite bathroom. Final course cost: Euro 4280
PRIVATE APARTMENT
Maximum 15 minutes walk from the studio, with one bedroom, kitchen, bathroom and outside space. Final course cost: 4420
Course without lodging Euro 2980
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 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.
Artist Statement
I feel deeply connected to the generations of potters who since the remote past have made bowls and vases for humanity. These functional objects are present in everyday live, and among the most powerful symbols of life on earth. When creating, I feel a strong connection to tradition, but the inspiration that comes from the ever-stimulating materials I use is equally powerful.
A common thread made of passion, curiosity and commitment binds together the students I have had the pleasure of teaching during the past two months. Passing the knowledge of making on the wheel to new generations completes my own path as a ceramist.
