Sgraffito Decoration on Wheel Thrown Pieces with Clara Holt

In this course students will gain deep knowledge and practice of sgraffito, a ceramic decoration technique that can be applied to both flat surfaces and wheel thrown pieces.

In sgraffito, a layer of slip is applied to completely cover the ceramic surface, which is then scratched or carved to reveal the colour underneath, creating a contrasting design formed by the negative space. Sgraffito designs range from simple lines and shapes to complex patterns and images: the technique has been used for centuries and is found in various cultures throughout the world.

The course will alternate theoretical explanations with demonstrations and a lot of hands-on practice, including:

• An overview of the available tools and materials for different variations of the technique
• An overview of Clara’s own creative process as well as sgraffito work from other artists and traditions.
• Practising a variety of techniques on test tiles and tumblers, to experiment with different expressive possibilities and materials. This includes: working with industrial underglazes, preparing your own coloured slips, working on different clay bodies.
• Decorating two tumbler (approx. 12cm) with the techniques and colours of their choice
• Decorating two larger pieces (approx. 20cm & 30cm), will a strong emphasis on the creative process: from finding sources inspiration and visual references, to transforming ideas into illustrated images, and then choosing the suitable materials and techniques to bring one’s idea to life while maintaining harmony between illustration, shape and materials/colours.

Salemi Ceramics will provide all decoration materials, test tiles, and a few objects to be decorated: two tumblers (approx 12cm), and two vases (approx 20cm & 30cm). The course fee includes the firing of these test tiles and pieces. Students may also use free studio hours to make their own pieces to be decorated (either handbuilding or wheel throwing) or purchase extra pieces. Purchase, firing and shipping of these extra pieces is not included in the course price.