Ceramics Course – First Level

We cordially invite you to a five-day introductory course to the world of ceramics, Monday through Friday, 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.! Learn the techniques, materials, and secrets of working with clay, and gain a solid foundation for your creative endeavors.

During five sessions (25 workshop hours total), you'll work under the guidance of an instructor with over 20 years of experience in ceramics and five years of experience running a commercial studio. The course covers both artistic and functional ceramic creation.

In addition to learning ceramic techniques, you will learn how to organize a studio, operate tools and equipment, and discover the properties of different ceramic masses.

Course program

1. Organization of the ceramics workshop

• Principles of ergonomics and occupational health and safety (OHS).
• Overview of tools and equipment: potter's wheel, ceramic kiln, modeling and rolling tools.
• Organization of the ceramics production process in a small studio.

2. Ceramic masses

• Types of ceramic masses: stoneware, porcelain, fireclay and their applications.
• Selection of clay for different types of work.
• Clay preparation techniques.

3. Gluing techniques

• Pinch Pot – squeezing pots from a ball.
• Roller modeling – building structures by combining rolls of slime and trowelling them.
• Solid modeling – the basics of ceramic sculpture and the creation of artistic forms.

4. Ceramic decorating techniques

• Underglaze and engobe paints: European materials and paints from the USA.
• Creating your own decoration slips.
• Decorative techniques: sgraffito, underglaze tracing and other decoration methods.

5. Glazing and firing ceramics

• Glaze types: food glazes, firing temperature ranges, European and American products (Amaco, Mayco, Spectrum).
• Glazing techniques: pouring, dipping, spraying, brushing.
• Preparing works for firing.

6. Introduction to Ceramic Sculpture

• Modeling of solid and hollow bodies.
• Creating stable structures and sculptural details.

Course effects

After completing the course:

• You will gain skills in modeling, shaping and decorating ceramics.
• You will learn how to use tools and organize a ceramics studio.
• You will create your own decorated vessels and small sculptures, ready for use after firing.
• You will learn the basics of firing ceramics and experimenting with different glaze effects.

There will be a lunch break (included in the price) during the class. Hot drinks will also be available on site.

About the presenter

The course is led by Alicja Kędzierska, founder of the AliKe studio and a ceramist with over 20 years of experience in ceramics, including over 5 years running a commercial studio. Alicja specializes in sculpture and wheel-throwing, as well as creating unique forms and using advanced glazing techniques.

She developed her skills in Poland, including with the renowned ceramic artist Pan Tworzydło and at the Ceramiq studio. She also expanded her knowledge abroad, gaining international experience that translates into the originality and unique character of her works.

Alicja's passion for ceramics and her ability to share knowledge make her workshops inspiring and professional.