Ceramics

Code: C1519-23

    • O

      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.

Media

Stoneware, wheel throwing, reduction gas firing to cone 10

Supply List

Faculty

Ellen Shankin

Ellen Shankin is a studio potter in Virginia. She exhibits her work nationally, with pieces in the collections of numerous museums, and her work appears in many periodicals and books of ceramic art. She has taught more than 50 workshops in the US and Italy.

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Tuition: $1,400.00
Studio Fee: $200.00
Registration Fee: $45.00

Registration Information

Join Waitlist for Design Decisions

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.

 

Related Events

Health & Safety

Beginning February 2023, Anderson Ranch will no longer require proof of Covid-19 vaccination for studio and artistic program participants. For your own safety as well as the safety of our community, we highly encourage all program participants to be up to date with their vaccinations for COVID-19 as well as the flu vaccine. We also encourage you to carry health and traveler’s insurance.

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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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