33-2023 – Rachel Wood – The Infinite Vessel

Introduction

The infinite vessel workshop will refresh, revitalise and deepen your connection with the hand building techniques of pinching and coiling. Using an experimental approach, you will be able to gain confidence, develop competent skills and befriend your clay! Furthermore, you will  learn and apply surface decoration and mark making techniques to add vitality and life to your work, so that the natural qualities of the clay, and your Tuscan experience, come shining through.

Techniques taught

The course will begin with the fundamentals of coiling and pinching techniques. Then,  through playful experiments and some group work we will explore the physical qualities of the clay, appreciate it strengths, and exploit its limitations. In fact, using an investigative approach, we shall also experiment with surface treatment through the application of slips and glaze to build layer and depth to your work. Your own handmade tiles will be perfect for this in order to get speedy results through the test kiln, the results of which will inform the larger pieces made and fired later in the week.

Teaching Method

In the infinite vessel, students will be continually encouraged and supported on an individual basis to help them translate introductory experiments into larger pieces. There will also be a slide show presentation one evening about Rachel’s own work, inspirations and philosophy to making.

Logistics

On every classday, a delicious meal will be served. Lodging is included as well. The workshop is suitable for all levels.

The Artist

Rachel Wood studied ceramics at Loughborough College of Art and Design. Rachel was also assistant to the potter Robin Welch, and has completed several residencies including at Rufford Craft Centre, Sturt Craft Centre, Australia, and Guldagergaard International Ceramic Research Centre, Denmark. She now teaches and exhibits extensively in the UK, Germany, Netherlands, France and Australia. Her work is found in private and public collections. She says of herself: “I am inspired by the world around me…the colours, shapes and the textures of the landscape. I want each pot to convey its own spirit and character…to have a pulse and a heartbeat. I want the marks to reflect the journey of exploration and learning in each pot, just as a wrinkle or dimple depicts expression and character in a human face.” www.rachelwoodceramics.co.uk