Ceramics: Introduction to Hand-building and Special Projects

Students will be introduced to, and will immediately engage in, the basic hand-building techniques of clay. While working in the studio, participants will be exposed to historical and contemporary artists, and will learn of the historical path of the medium, discovering how it has integrated into and helped shape the modern world. Students will learn the technical side of the medium, including the firing, glazing and finishing of ceramic objects. Students will work on self-decided projects under the close direction of the Instructor. With a class size limited to only 10, students will receive intimate instruction from a current expert in the field. Students of all levels are welcome and are invited to contact the Instructor prior to the start of class with any questions, thoughts, or concerns.

All classes will take place at the VITA Art Center. The first class will start with several short demos and a discussion lead by the Instructor. The remainder this class and the remaining classes will consist of the students working independently under the close direction of the Instructor, with additional group discussions and demos happening as needed. The specific student projects will be formed decided by the end of the first class. Students should come to class with any project ideas, inspirations, or questions if they have any. And all the more exciting if they don't!

Due to the nature of the medium, students will return two weeks after class has ended to glaze their work. Works will then be fired and available to pick up two weeks after this date. (These dates to be given the first day of class.)

All clay, necessary tools, firings, and some glaze material will be provided and are included with the course’s tuition. Students will also have the option to purchase their own tools and additional clay from the Instructor.

A native of Ventura County, Marianne McGrath recently returned to the area after 20 years out of state. Holding a BA in ceramics from CU Boulder, and a MFA in studio art from UT Austin, Marianne has taught Ceramics and Sculpture at the University level for over 11 years. A professional practicing artist, she has participated in over 100 exhibitions throughout North America, receiving numerous awards, honors, and fellowships. She has participated in international residency programs, and her work is included in several private and public collections throughout the country. You can see more of Marianne’s work and contact her directly through her website: www.mariannemcgrath.com