Ceramics
Code: C1519-23
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Open to All
Students of any skill and knowledge level.
Design Decisions
Sep 11 - 22, 2023
9AM-5PM
Concept
This workshop explores methods and techniques involved in making altered pots. What happens to simple forms with the addition of handles and spouts? How can we contribute to the presence of a piece and not inadvertently take away from it? How do rims and feet work together? These questions and more are addressed through the pitcher, mug, soy bottle, and bowl. Students look at decisions made in the creative process—by choice or by default—that affect the expressive qualities of functional pottery. Through discussion, demonstration, and slide presentation, the workshop offers a close look at the expressive language of clay and encourages a playful exploration of form.
Please note that Ralph Scala and JJ Peet have replaced Ellen Shankin as the instructor.
Media & Techniques
Stoneware, wheel throwing, reduction gas firing to cone 10
Supply ListFaculty
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.
Join Waitlist for Design Decisions
Thank you for your interest in the waitlist. When space in a workshop or program becomes available, registration will open on the website. Everyone on the waitlist will be emailed to alert them of the opening. This ensures that everyone has an equal opportunity to register for the workshop or program.
Ceramics
In 1966, American 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 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.
The Soldner Ceramics Center makes up more than 10,000 square feet in three buildings with 3 studio spaces and 1 kiln yard; Soldner Studio, Long Studio, Sorenson Studio and Lyeth/Lyon Kiln Building. Soldner and Long studios are used for wheel-throwing, hand-building, or general ceramics creativity. Sorenson studio is equipped with five PotterBot 3d clay printers. The Lyeth/Lyon kiln building is equipped with gas, electric, soda and wood kilns for both oxidation and reduction firing at all temperature ranges. The Ranch offers three wood kilns including a gas/wood hybrid kiln, three gas reduction kilns, one soda kiln and eleven high-temperature electric kilns.
Anderson Ranch is happy to extend a tuition discount* in summer one- or two-week adult ceramics workshops** for NCECA members at the student membership level or above. Please email reg@
Workshop Details
Workshop Supplies
For general information about studio access, shipping, and more, please visit our info page.
If you have any questions regarding your supplies for your workshop, please contact Joanne Seongweon Lee, [email protected].
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.
NEW: Tuition includes a welcome dinner and lunches. In our effort to foster a stronger sense of community and accessibility at Anderson Ranch, we include the welcome dinner and all lunches as part of the tuition for summer workshop students. Our hope is that this adjustment will encourage all students to come together to share meals and engage in meaningful conversations. The Ranch Café Meal Plan, which is included with Room and Board fees, strives to provide healthy, creative meals that will nourish your artistic creativity. Learn more.
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.
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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