08-2023 Luigi Pullini – Winter Stokers and Wild Clay
February 19 – March 5 2023
Research of wild clays for firing in the trainkiln
Some experience is desirable
Introduction
Ninety percent of the earth’s crust is made of materials useful for the potter. This fascinating fact underlies Winter Stokers and Wld Clay, a workshop that revolves around the research, study and preparation of wild clays, throwing on the wheel and firing in the wood kiln.
Wild Clay
Winter Stokers will start with a most panoramic excursion to collect wild clay. Guided by the indications of Luigi Pullini, we will first learn to study the maps and then to observe the territory in order to identify places where we can find promising material. Once back at La Meridiana, the preparation of high temperature clay bodies will be undertaken. Several steps and tests will reveal the physical qualities and aesthetic possibilities of the materials collected.
In the studio
In the studio, we will work either on the wheel or by handbuilding in order to make pieces to be fired in the train kiln. There will be demonstrations on the wheel, on altering and on handbuilding, and by appliyng these methods each participant will create objects suitable for the wood firing.
The firing
Firing will occur in the “Orient Express”, La Meridiana’s trainkiln. It is conceived in the wake of the tradition of the Japanese “Anagama” kilns that enhance the effects of flames and ashes on the clay surface.
Various factors may influence the results and have to be taken into consideration. We will study the possibility of using engobes and/or glazes, and review the importance of woading and supports. During loading, we will pay specific attention to the placing of the pots and preview an estimate of the flame path and ashes. The firing will last 40 hours with everyone participating. In a collective effort, the Winter Stokers will alternate shifts in small teams. Then, cooling will allow for some rest and when unloading there will be much observation and reflection. Sharing the results will be a moment of great joy for all.
Logistics
Of the actual course days, one is dedicated to the research of wild clay, seven days to preparing clay bodies and working in the studio, three days to firing, and one to unloading and analysing the results for a total of 12 working days . Lodging, lunchtime meals, and twice daily coffee breaks are included.
The artist
Luigi Pullini graduated from the Art School of Grottaglie in “Ceramic Design” in 2016. He is specialized in the research and use of wild clay, the production of clay bodies from materials found in nature and in the buliding and firing of of gas and wood kilns. In 2019, he started teaching courses and since 2022, he collaborates with La Meridiana. @pulligiluiniceramica
| Artista: | Luigi Pullini |
|---|---|
| Data: | Sunday February 19 ( arrival) – March 5 ( departure) 2023 |
| Length of course | 12 giorni di lavoro |
| Level | Some experience required |
| Technique | Wood and/or soda firing |
| Deposit: | € 500 |
| Total of cost: | 2050 |
NOT AVAILABLE
Activities
1- During the first day, collection of materials for the production of wild clay.
2- Study, development and preparation of high temperature clay bodies using the found materials.
3- Throwing demos, demos on alteration and handbuilding.
4- Individual making of objects with wild clay.
5- Use of engobes and glazes, woading and supports, kiln loading and positioning of objects.
6- 40hours firing of the trainkiln.
Info
The workshop fee includes the following:
Tuition of 6 – 8 hours per day;
Studio open 11 hours per day;
All materials and firings;
Lodging in shared double room; single room on request at additional fee of 230 euros per week;
Shared kitchen facilities and shared bathroom.
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.
Safety
La Meridiana is equipped to comply with the current safety standards regarding Covid-19, including social distancing between people in and outside the studio. The daily maintenance of hygiene measures is guaranteed. Please note that participants will be required to follow the security protocol and to comply with some simple precautions.