Ceramics: creativity through clay

There’s a variety of work in progress in the ceramics classes at the moment; we have everyone from beginners to very advanced ceramicists. On one table, we have slabs of clay being rolled our, imprinted with a lace doily, then pressed over a former, trimmed, tidied and on its way to being a very pretty dish.

On another table, a very elaborate plate is being worked on, with a basic shape being decorated with a glorious profusion of 3D flowers.

Next one along, some sculptured hares: one still being modelled in wet clay, one which has had its first (biscuit) firing and is receiving a coat of oxide, which is then sponged off, leaving the colour gathered in the fur texture.

In the middle of the room, a very realistic life-sized fish sculpture is about to be glazed.

Our tutor, Suzette tours the room, offering advice and encouragement at each stage.

All materials and tools are provided, though most of us gradually invest in our own equipment as our experience and confidence grows. We know some members have been so bitten by the ceramics bug, they have gone on to invest in their own kilns - but most of us rely on Suzette to fire our work and there’s always that moment of excitement at the beginning of a session when work is unwrapped and its new transformed state can be appreciated!

Do join us. There are still spaces in the group and we are very friendly (if truth be told, sometimes, there is rather more chat than pottery…). We meet on the last Tuesday of the month from 2.00-4.30. Many of us carry on working on our pieces at home and value our sessions with Suzette for her advice and encouragement.

If you fancy a trial session just to see if it’s for you, you can contact us via the website or, if you prefer, email Jan. Cost would be £5.00.