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32 -2026- José M. Mariscal – Form and Surface: Crystalline Glazes and Texture
August 2 – 15, 2026
Throwing and glaze formulation. Some experience required
Basic experience on the wheel is required
Introduction
Form and surface are the topics of this two week long workshop. There will be the throwing with very specific techniques and the making and application of crystalline glazes. Participants will learn how to make suitable forms for crystalline glazes and what to consider in formulating the glazes plus a variety of textures for the surface.
Techniques taught
On the first week we will be concentrated on form, throwing pieces with different technique, using stoneware and porcelain. José will explain how he throws and centers the clay. Form includes shapes with long and thin necks, open pieces like moon jars, throwing small, throwing in two parts. Surface addresses the study of texture techniques and the magic of crystalline glazes. During the second week, there is a practical part with the formulation and application of some basic glazes, then continued with a technical part to understand the process. Glaze formulation, the most suitable frits for crystals and the theory of crystallisation will be discussed first followed by considerations regarding temperatures, application and firing methods. Furthermore, reduction and post-reduction, treatments with acids and the formulation for red backgrounds will be discussed.
Teaching Method
With tips and tricks out of his vast experience, José Mariscal will help participants to avoid typical errors, permitting to continue to explore the process successfully in the future. He will help one by one to improve the throwing skills.The workshop is suitable for students with at least some throwing experience, meaning they should be able to throw at least bowls and fairly large cylinders. There will be three final firings: one oxidation firing, one reduction firing, one post reduction firing. Each student will be able to glaze fire at least four pieces but it is important to know that some work will be bisq fired only.
Logistics
On every class day, a delicious meal will be served. Lodging is included as well.The workshop is suitable for students with at least some throwing experience and will be taught in english.
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 the afternoon of Sunday, August 2 and depart on the morning of Saturday, August 15, 2026.
The artist
José Mariscal is the son of a potter and learned to turn the potter’s wheel as a boy in his father’s workshop. In 1992 he started to work as a potter at Ceramicas Martinez in Vulpellac. He went from studio to studio and improved his throwing technique to perfection. In 2003 he opened his own studio and began to experiment with different glazing techniques, work with engobes, as well as with raku, naked raku and terra sigillata. In 2010, José Mariscal bought an electric kiln and started developing his crystal glazes.
| Artist | José M. Mariscal |
|---|---|
| Length of course | 10 working days in the studio |
| Technique | Glaze course, Surface techniques, Throwing |
| Level | Non beginners |
| 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 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.
