Aims

The aims of the course are to communicate information about the nature of glaze and the part played by different materials in the formation of glazes and, through this, to give participants the practical and theoretical confidence to mix, evolve and modify glazes to their individual wishes. A further aim is to learn methods of applying glazes onto different shapes.

Nature of the course

The course uses firings at high temperature to exemplify the principles of glaze formation, relevant at all temperatures. Participants will mix and fire glaze tests and material tests. The firings will primarily be fired in a reduction atmosphere but there will also be one oxidised firing and one at lower temperature. Each individual will undertake different work which will contribute to the overall coverage of the course. The explanations, demos and practice will give participants the confidence and ability to comprehend what a glaze is made of and why it does what it does. There will also be demos of various ways to apply glazes to different forms, followed by practice: glazing of test tiles and of bisqued pots.

Approach of the course

The approach of the course is a practical and empirical way of reaching understanding, but the relevance of the theoretical work of Herman Seger is introduced when the practical work of the course is complete. The course is planned for an intermediate level. Basic knowledge about ceramic materials recommended. A reading list may be provided upon request. There will be a maximum of 10 participants.

The artist

John Colbeck has taught full and part time at Ceramics degree courses in the UK throughout his working life and was for many years Head of Ceramics at Bath Academy of Art and, in addition, has taught many short courses and given lectures and seminars in the UK and abroad. He is author of “Pottery, the Technique of Throwing” (1969), “Pottery, Techniques of Decoration” (1983) (both of these still available as Classic reprints from Axner Supplies USA) and “Pottery Materials” (1988). He produces unglazed, polished thrown forms in stoneware and porcelain