Ceramics

Code: VFC5004-25

    • O

      Open to All

      Students of any skill and knowledge level.

    • Virtual Workshop

      Virtual Workshop, learn from the comfort of your own home.

VIRTUAL WORKSHOP
Resonate Form: Designing and Building Ceramic Sound Sculptures

Dec 13, 2025

9:00AM MST

Tuition: $60.00
Studio Fee: $0.00
Registration Fee: $0.00

Concept

Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of aerophone sounds and ceramic sculpture. This workshop is designed for both beginner and advanced artists to learn techniques for creating works that engage both the ear and the eye. Discover how to generate a variety of sounds through the design and construction of unique ceramic sculptural forms inspired by ancient pre-Hispanic cultures.

During the session, we focus on the sculptural modeling of forms and figures. We begin with a globular vessel as the initial module, using the pinch-and-pressure modeling technique. We then delve into the world of aerophones by designing a sound system within our sculptures.

Participants learn how the shape and size of the resonating chamber will influence the resulting sound, giving the artwork symbolic and aesthetic meaning. Join us for this unique experience where ceramics and sound merge to create a piece that resonates with your senses and emotions.

This workshop meets virtually via Zoom Video Conferencing software (downloadable for free from Zoom.com) and will be conducted in Spanish, with live, real-time English translation included. Review our Virtual Ceramics Workshop Welcome Guide to learn more about the workshop details.

Faculty

Julieta Bilbao

Julieta Bilbao and Martín Gastón Merlos, Argentine ceramic artists, have been exploring sound ceramics inspired by pre-Hispanic cultures for 15 years. Their project, Nómada Cerámica, fuses ancestral techniques with a contemporary approach. They are dedicated to the research, dissemination, and teaching of this unique technique. They have collaborated with prominent institutions and carried out more than 400 activities, including conferences, workshops, and concerts in Latin America and Europe since 2017. Through sound sculptural objects, they unite past and present, creating an aesthetic and sacred language that encompasses ceramics, sculpture, music, anthropology, and archaeology.

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Martín Gastón Merlos

Martín Gastón Merlos and Julieta Bilbao, Argentine ceramic artists, have been exploring sound ceramics inspired by pre-Hispanic cultures for 15 years. Their project, Nómada Cerámica, fuses ancestral techniques with a contemporary approach. They are dedicated to the research, dissemination, and teaching of this unique technique. They have collaborated with prominent institutions and carried out more than 400 activities, including conferences, workshops, and concerts in Latin America and Europe since 2017. Through sound sculptural objects, they unite past and present, creating an aesthetic and sacred language that encompasses ceramics, sculpture, music, anthropology, and archaeology.

Learn More

Tuition: $60.00
Studio Fee: $0.00
Registration Fee: $0.00

Workshop Details

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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  • II

    Level II

    Students have a basic understanding of forming techniques, such as throwing and hand building. Students have taken one or two ceramics classes or workshops.

  • III

    Level III

    Students have significant experience with clay forming techniques, such as throwing, hand building and modeling. Students are comfortable with ceramics equipment, such as wheels, extruders and slab rollers. Students are self­-starting with some formal training and have taken a minimum of three classes or workshops.

  • IV

    Level IV

    Students have advanced skills and knowledge of the ceramics field. Students are highly motivated, have a minimum of five years experience in the field and have a portfolio of their artwork. Typical students are academics and professional artists.

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Summer Studio Session: Ceramics Week 3

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Code C1623-25

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  • O

    Open to All

    Students of any skill and knowledge level.

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Code C4925-25

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  • O

    Open to All

    Students of any skill and knowledge level.

  • Virtual Workshop

    Virtual Workshop, learn from the comfort of your own home.

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VIRTUAL WORKSHOP
Seeking a New Line: Experimenting with Form and Color in Ceramic Sculpture

En Iwamura

Tuition $60
Code VFC4901-25

Push the boundaries of form and color in ceramic sculpture with renowned Japanese artist En Iwamura. This workshop invites you to explore bold, large-scale ceramic forms while discovering innovative surface techniques that bring your work to life. Through En’s unique approach to coil building, you’ll learn how to design and construct large clay forms with confidence. Dive into his signature methods for painting on ceramic surfaces, where water and pigment interact to create rich, spontaneous bursts of color. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced artist, this workshop offers invaluable tools, techniques, and inspiration to elevate your practice. From mastering best practices and gaining new technical skills to rethinking your creative process, you’ll leave with fresh perspectives and a renewed excitement for making ceramic sculpture. This workshop meets virtually via Zoom Video Conferencing software (downloadable for free from Zoom.com). Review our Virtual Ceramics Workshop Welcome Guide to learn more about the workshop details.

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