Ceramics

Code: C1317-23

    • O

      Open to All

      Students of any skill and knowledge level.

Content Craft Courage

Aug 28 - Sep 8, 2023

9AM-5PM

Concept

Surrounding the core ideas of making art objects—content, craft and courage—this workshop investigates handbuilding techniques by focusing on small/medium figurative and abstract sculptures and using multiple firing and reglazing techniques. Starting with a high vitrification point, the workshop begins with firing in a wood, soda, or reduction kiln to produce unexpected surfaces and colors, then starts the reglazing process at midrange to low fire, landing on luster and China paints. In this reglazing process, students try custom glazes and alter manufactured glazes to create their own palette, and experiment with over- and under-glazes. Alongside making, students take photos of work being produced, printing out on paper to encourage ideas for glaze/slip compositions; these works often become finished art in themselves. The goal is to push students’ making and glazing skills in conjunction with content, craft, and courage of the work.

Media

Removable metal armatures, glazes, slips and terra sigs, high temp markers, china paints, lusters, soda/wood firing, and gas reduction.

Supply List

Faculty

Ralph Scala

Ralph Scala maintains a studio in Santa Fe, NM, where he produces paintings, sculpture, and functional ceramics. From 2000 to 2016, Ralph consecutively served as studio director at Lillstreet Studios, Santa Fe Clay, and Anderson Ranch Arts Center. He received a BA in painting and sculpture from Evergreen State College. His work can be found in private collections in the US, Mexico, and Japan.

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Ralph Scala, Perro

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Ceramics

In 1966, American raku ceramicist Paul Soldner selected the site for what is now Anderson Ranch Arts Center, forming the foundation for a thriving ceramics program. Then and now, Anderson Ranch is a place where students exchange ideas and examine ceramic art and pottery-making techniques. It has always been a place where seminal moments of growth happen in an artist’s creative and critical thinking. Here, both beginning and emerging artists gain strong fundamental support, while established artists achieve new perspectives and advance their techniques.

The Ranch Ceramics team provides support, feedback and technical problem solving, giving each artist the freedom to experiment and grow. Our primary focus is on personal advancement through a process of creative discovery. We also offer community engagement through events like our Locals’ Clubs “Circle of Fire” where artists engage with the Ranch outside of the workshop setting.

The Soldner Ceramics Center makes up more than 10,000 square feet in three buildings. The Lyeth/Lyon kiln building is equipped with gas, electric, soda and wood kilns for both oxidation and reduction firings at all temperature ranges. The Ranch offers three wood kilns, four gas reduction kilns, one soda kiln and eleven high-temperature electric kilns.

Anderson Ranch is happy to extend a 20% tuition discount* in summer one- or two-week adult workshops for NCECA members. Please register online and then email reg@andersonranch.org with your membership information and we will make the adjustment once you are in the system. You are also welcome to call 970-924-5089 to register. *Please note that the NCECA discount does not apply to The Center / Advanced Mentored Studies program, nor can it be combined with any other discount, scholarship or special offer. 

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Workshop Details

Supply List

Many of the items you'll need are available in the ArtWorks Store. Please click "View Full Supply List" to see a comprehensive list of items you'll need for this workshop.

Lodging & Meals

Housing is limited and includes shared and private lodging options. Reservations will be managed on a first-come, first-served basis. The earlier you reserve housing, the better your chance of receiving your preferred option. Please note: Workshop costs do not include accommodations. 

We have established a Business Safety Plan with added layers of precaution that prioritize the health and safety of our staff, students, faculty and guests while continuing to provide you with the Anderson Ranch experience that you know and enjoy.

The Ranch Café meal plan that is included with Room and Board fees strives to provide healthy, creative meals that will nourish your artistic creativity. The meal plan includes 5 days of continental breakfasts that will include a hot offering, 5 lunches with a selection of offerings, and 5 dinners.

 

Scholarships, College Credit & Discounts

Making Art Accessible

Applications for scholarship support are encouraged. Specific scholarships are funded by Ranch supporters, either through endowed funds or special gifts.

Many colleges and universities offer college credit for workshops taken at Anderson Ranch. Discounts are available for students and teachers.

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