This classic course covers the fundamentals of throwing with porcelain and has been running for over ten years. Just as 13th century Europeans were stunned by the dazzling white and decorated vessels of hard vitreous material brought by Marco Polo from the Orient, contemporary potters are still in awe of the “white gold”. Many think that porcelain is difficult to throw. This however, is an unfortunate misconception. Porcelain simply has a different quality of plasticity, meaning that throwing techniques have to be adapted. For example, when lubricated with water, porcelain is less forgiving because it tends to soften more quickly than other clay bodies. The need to work speedily, but without rushing, is an excellent discipline. People who have learnt to throw with porcelain find the transition to other clays straightforward because of the efficient technique learned.

Techniques taught

The course begins with the basics: preparing clay, centering and pulling cylinders. The primary focus for the two weeks is on throwing and trimming a range of different forms. Demonstrations in the first week cover a range of forms large and small: cylindrical, ovoid and spherical shapes including jugs, vases and lidded pots as well as flat, open forms like plates and bowls.  A related sequence of demonstrations covers decorative processes relevant to finishing porcelain forms. These include carving, fluting, faceting, incising, painting and, of course, glazing. A selection of work is biscuit fired and glazed. All firings are done in the gas kilns, the glaze firings being in a reducing atmosphere, at cone 10. Participants may use a range of classic Oriental and some more modern glazes from La Meridiana.

Teaching method

Each morning and afternoon session begins with a demonstration for the whole group. Participants receive a detailed program of demonstrations and of firings on the first day. In addition, there are individual meetings with all participants to find out their aspirations and their level of experience. After each of the two daily demonstrations, participants can settle into their individual rhythm of work. They can either practice the processes just demonstrated or pursue their agreed individual objectives – in both cases with the support of the teachers. The porcelain body used on the course is made in-house designed specifically for its throwing qualities. Two visual talks occur in the first week. At the end of the second week there are two technical talks and an “Any Questions” session. Each of the two glaze firings are concluded with a discussion of finished work. While on the course, participants are also encouraged to make use of La Meridiana’s extensive collection of books and magazines. The course is open to participants of every level, including beginners.

Logistics

Students arrive on Sunday, May 16 and departure will be on Saturday, May 29, 2027.
On all working days two coffee breaks and a freshly prepared and delicious lunch are provided by La Meridiana.At booking, you may select your preferred room type, choosing between: standard lodging, single or shared room;  upgraded accommodation; private apartment. Please note that depending on the availability, certain types at times may not be offered.
The work made during the course will be fired before departure. We can assist with arranging shipment through a professional shipping company.

The teachers

John Colbeck was a student at the Central School of Arts and Crafts in London. Throughout his working life he has taught full and part time at degree courses in the UK and has frequently acted as an External Examiner. For many years he was Head of Department at Bath Academy of Art in Corsham and has given illustrated lectures and courses in the UK and abroad. He has written three books: “Pottery: The Technique of Throwing” (1969); “Pottery: Techniques of Decoration” (1983); and “Pottery Materials” (1988). His making and experiments have covered a wide range of objects and processes and, currently, he is making unglazed and polished thrown vessels in porcelain and stoneware. www.johncolbeck.com

Franco Rampi has been working with clay since 1978. After apprenticeships in Italy and England, he returned to Tuscany in 1980 to open his own studio. He first produced functional objects in earthenware with slips and brushed overglaze decoration, before moving to reduction-fired stoneware. While he enjoys throwing traditional functional forms, he also experiments with clays, slips and sculptural objects, incorporating slab-building into his work. Since 2010, Franco has been a valued collaborator and wheel-throwing instructor at La Meridiana. Since 2020 he has also been teaching the in-depth courses “On Centre” and “On the Wheel”. Students find his structured, direct, supportive approach and extensive knowledge invaluable in levelling-up their throwing and glazing skills. Franco recognizes teaching as deeply fulfilling. He enjoys sharing his experience with new generations of potters and passing on the joy of creating on the wheel. www.francorampi.it