Hand-built pottery using slab building techniques is a popular contemporary method that goes beyond what is possible with wheel-thrown methods. Using easy-to-learn slab-building techniques, potters can create whimsical, asymmetrical. and free-form shapes. Pieces can be decorated in a variety of ways using mark-making, color and glazes to enhance the final product.
Instructor Alfredo Ratinoff guides students through the process of designing and hand-building using the clay-slab method. Students learn to build simple shapes and decorate them with colorful underglazes and clear glaze. Each student will make two to four clay stoneware pieces, from small vases to bowls and other utilitarian shapes. Various surface treatments are discussed, and technical information on firing and glazing is included.
The fee for shared supplies included in tuition covers 25 pounds of clay, glazes, and one firing. Additional supplies are discussed in the first class. The option of extra firings is available. Associated fees must be agreed upon between instructor and student. This class is open to students of all levels.
Download the supply list for this class
Ratinoff is a ceramic artist who specializes in one-of-a-kind pottery pieces, sculpture, and large-scale tile murals. His works are in collections throughout the United States, Europe, and South America. He is represented by the Watergate Gallery in Washington, D.C.
8 sessions, 2 hours each
