Ceramics: Exploring Alternative Surface/Firing Techniques

June 18-29, 2018, 1-4 pm
Open to students entering grades 9-12
Course Credit:  1/2 Trimester Art

In this two week workshop we will explore some of the possibilities of alternative surface treatments for ceramic objects. We will create forms by hand-building and/or wheel-throwing, expanding our awareness of what is possible while working in clay. Experimentation with an emphasis on taking risks during the creation process will yield a great variety of objects to explore the firing processes.

During the glazing and firing of the work, we will explore non-conventional and exciting solutions to add visual interest to our finished pieces. This will include several different firing processes, including raku and saggar firing, as well as unique approaches to traditional glazing. Whatever experience the participants have will be expanded and built upon, and beginners will be given the support and guidance to explore this wonderful material.

Tim Clark, instructor

Upper School ceramics teacher Tim Clark graduated from Skidmore College with a B.S. in studio art and a minor in art history. Following graduation he apprenticed with Toshiko Takaezu, a renowned ceramic artist, for one year. After teaching in a boarding school for five years he went to graduate school and earned his MFA in ceramics from The School for American Crafts at Rochester Institute of Technology. This past year Tim exhibited new work in a solo show, Explorations, in the Bell Gallery at Rivers. He is currently in his twelfth year of teaching at Rivers.