In this workshop we will explore form, surface, and essence in creating sculptural forms with function for the table or mantle. This workshop will explore numerous hand-building techniques to create large forms including pitchers, teapots, candlesticks, and vases. This is a hands-on workshop, and each student is encouraged to bring ideas and inspiration to make work that tells a personal story. A number of techniques will be demonstrated during the workshop. Mixed media elements, surface treatments, figurative and abstract forms and will be discussed during the course of the workshop.

In this class we will use the slab machine and/or the potter’s wheel to make various shapes that will be stacked together on a metal pole/rebar for either garden art or inside your home.  Students will need to source their own rebar and mounting base/block before class and have it ready on the first day of class.   Various hand building techniques will be demonstrated as well as student created templates and studio forms used to construct shapes.  Students need to bring resource materials for inspiration such as pictures, sketches, etc.

August 8^th, 9^th, 10^th, 15^th, and 17^th

Use this class and Open Studio time as a way to work on that specific project you have always wanted to start.  Bring ideas, sketches, pictures, and whatever personal research you have completed and the role of the teacher is to guide you through the process and help you complete your idea.  *It should be noted that not all ideas can be completed in 2 weeks and the time frame should be discussed with the instructor before starting.  This class is self-directed, the studio is open to other classes and open studio members.

August 8^th, 9^th, 10^th, 15^th, and 17^th

Students will learn the basics for testing glaze using test tiles, mixing new glaze and using a line progression to make new colors, and finally applying glazes to pots.  Students need to have some pots already made as most of the class time will be used testing glaze. 

September 5^th, 6^th, 7^th, 12^th, and 14^th

Help us make bowls for Empty Bowls using the slab machine and texture pads.  All sizes and shapes will be made.  Dates: 6th, 13th, 20th 

Using the pinch pot, we will create pumpkins and then decorate using cut outs and faces. Dates: 4th, 11th, and 18th

Become a rabbit and let’s fall down the rabbit hole together….In oral traditions, myths and stories were created to help us better understand and interact with our world. Because they were spoken, they could adapt with the telling to reflect societal and environmental changes through the years.  In this class we will explore how to rewild old stories, or create altogether new ones, through narrative sculpture.  Kirsten encourages everyone to bring their favorite tales, characters, or archetypes and together we will explore new ways of expressing them and releasing their lessons. Kirsten will lead students in creating a 15”- 18” coiled torso through a step-by-step process guided by anatomy and proportion.  No previous figurative experience is required. Particular attention will be given to the importance of gesture and expression as narrative tools as well as the expansion of storytelling potential through the addition of found objects. Texture and surface design will be discussed. Individual attention will be emphasized throughout the class to help each student manifest their vision.