It isn’t always the size of an object that makes it powerful. A skillfully designed form with a rich surface can often upstage a grand vessel. During “Making Small Pots Big” students, led by Steve Kelly, will create richly embellished functional objects. Participants of this course will improve their throwing skills while expanding their surface design vocabulary.
This workshop walks students through the design process from visualization and sketching to the finished product. During this concentrated period of exploration, students will enjoy the friendship and comradery of their international peers while drawing inspiration from the museums and hills of Tuscany. By the end of the workshop students discover new ways to create drama, visual impact and excitement in their pottery.
Techniques taught
Ideation and visualization
There are methods to the artist’s madness. Learn to develop ideas through iterations, disruption and exploration. Students will explore methods for finding new forms and redesigning their familiar forms. We also spend time outside the studio soaking up history and the beauty of natural surroundings. Returning to the studio, we synthesize our inspiration and research by sketching and conducting wheel and surface experiments.
Wheel throwing and altering
Steve will share production techniques and methods for creating both simple and complicated forms. He will demonstrate making a wide range of forms including cups and bowls to lidded forms and pitchers. Moreover, we focus on creating a process that is consistent and repeatable and speaks to each artist’s personal voice.
Surface decoration and glazing
Steve will share a variety of surface techniques that he has developed for his own work. He will demonstrate his water etching technique as well as some specific ways he draws, stamps and manipulates his surfaces. In addition, students will learn some of the unique methods he uses to apply underglaze, slip and glaze. Finished pieces will be fired in either a soda or gas kiln.
Teaching method
Having taught art and ceramics for 30 years Steve brings a wealth of technique and teaching skills. After classroom demonstrations he works individually with potters to observe and help refine technique. He is a hands-on instructor: he is right there with the student, guiding them as they acquire new skills. The most important aspect in Steve’s classroom is community. Conversations, questions and laughter are a huge part of the journey. This course will encourage students to share ideas and inspiration while researching their craft, sharing meals, and exploring Tuscany.
Logistics
Students arrive on Sunday, June 27, and departure will be on Saturday, July 10, 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.
We can assist with arranging shipment of the pieces made during the course through a professional company.
The artist
Steve Kelly is a potter and sculptor based in Stevens Point, Wisconsin. He is the lead ceramics professor at the University of Wisconsin, Stevens Point. In addition, he also stewards workshops in the US and abroad. Teaching is an integral part of Steve’s practice. He has taught students throughout the US and as far away as Australia and Italy. His work can be seen in numerous galleries and publications. Steve`s pieces range from humble utilitarian vessels to complex, abstract sculptural forms. What objects and surfaces can tell us about who we are? How we relate to one another? How do we leave marks on the world around us? These are some of the questions his work focuses on. Steve received his BFA from the University of Montana and his MFA from Maine College of Art. He apprenticeship with master potter Trew Bennet in the hills of Nelson County, Virginia.
kellypottery.com
stevenkellystudio.com
