Undergraduate Taster Session – A Creative Evening in the Studio

I had the distinct privilege of teaching two wonderfully enthusiastic undergraduate students this evening, who joined me for an engaging pottery taster session. The atmosphere was charged with excitement and anticipation, as both students were eager to get their hands dirty on the pottery wheel and learn the intricate art of throwing clay! I was more than happy to oblige their enthusiasm, but I also took a moment to gently remind them that there’s so much more to the world of pottery than simply making round things. Pottery is a rich and diverse medium that encompasses various techniques, styles, and forms, each with its own unique charm and challenges.

As the session began, both students approached the wheel with a sense of determination and curiosity. They gave throwing a solid try and, to my delight, they did remarkably well for beginners. It quickly became apparent to them that mastering the craft of throwing is not an instant skill that can be acquired in just a few moments; rather, it requires practice, patience, and a willingness to learn from mistakes. With their curiosity sparked, they were eager to explore other techniques during their 2.5-hour session. As is often the case in my workshops, time seemed to slip away, and the session ran a little longer than planned. I always strive to provide my guests with a full and rewarding experience, allowing them to delve deeper into the art of pottery.

Nancy, one of the students, ended up creating an adorable little turtle using the pinch pot technique. This choice was a perfect match for her background in biology, as she demonstrated a keen understanding of form and detail, bringing her turtle to life with personality. Meanwhile, Mika, who had just completed his studies in music at Southampton University and is now planning to pursue a master’s degree in conducting, took a different approach. He crafted a beautiful card holder using the slab-building method, showcasing his creativity and artistic flair. To make his piece even more personal, he decided to decorate it with musical notes, which added a delightful touch that reflected his passion for music.

As the session drew to a close, both students expressed a keen desire to glaze their work the same day, excited to see their creations come to life with vibrant colors. However, as time caught up with us, we had to discuss the logistics of glazing. We talked about the option of painting directly onto greenware, but ultimately, they chose to leave their pieces with me. This decision allowed their creations to dry slowly and be properly bisque fired, ensuring the best possible outcome for their pottery. With their summer holidays approaching, they were set to return in late August to glaze their creations, leaving them with a sense of anticipation for what was to come.

In the meantime, I’ll keep their pieces safe in my studio, ensuring they are well cared for during the drying and firing process. I plan to share updates with them as their work goes through the various stages of firing, which will hopefully keep the excitement alive while they wait to see the final results of their hard work and creativity. It’s always a joy to witness the journey of budding artists as they explore their creativity through pottery, and I look forward to seeing how their pieces turn out when they return!