This course is a unique chance to participate in the building of a wood firing kiln, learning the basics of kiln construction and operation.
During the course we will build a Phoenix fast-firing kiln with high temperature refractory materials, starting from the foundations, all the way to the chimney. Students will also have the chance to participate in the first firing of the newly built kiln, learning how to load the kiln, control the temperature curve and the oxidation/reduction level.
We will also explore ash glazes for wood firing, preparing a few base ash glazes with locally sourced material and glazing the pìeces for the first firing.
Students can bring a few bisqued pieces with them, we recommend 6-14 small pieces (max 12x12 cm) or 6 small + 1 large piece (up to 25 cm tall). Otherwise, the studio will provide 6 small and one large bisqued piece to each student, which they will be able to glaze with local ash glazes and fire in the kiln.
The course will cover some basic theory of kiln building and ash glazes, but will mostly focus on the practical aspects.
Please note that this course offers an extended schedule of 6 days of activities, in contrast to our usual 5-day format.
You will walk away from the course with:
Jaime Romero is a Spanish ceramicist specialised in wheel throwing, wood firing and ash glazes, with more than 30 years of experience. He has built more than 40 kilns and has taught dozens of kiln building and wood firing courses across Spain. He is an infinite source of knowledge on kiln construction and operation as well as oriental glazing techniques.
Mati Cini is Salemi Ceramic’s lead ceramicist. A disciple of Jaime, she has built several kilns in Barcelona before coming to Salemi, and has extensively researched natural glazes and ash glazes. She has adapted the kiln’s design to the school needs, and will source all the local materials for the course.
Previous ceramics experience is preferred.
This course is right for you if:
During this week, you won’t just get a ceramics course. We’ve also organised a program of activity so that you can connect with Sicilian culture, get to know the town of Salemi and its rich history and territory.
You will:
The Salemi School of Ceramics is a social enterprise that has been opened to create a learning centre for contemporary ceramics, the first of its kind in Sicily.
The School has been created in partnership with the local town of Salemi, which has provided the gorgeous space - the St Agustin Convent - that will be used for the school.
Salemi has a gorgeous historical centre and because it is quiet and peaceful, it is the perfect place for a mindful ceramics retreat.
(This may vary depending on factors such as good weather for firing)
Sunday- Arrival and welcome.
Monday - Building kiln part I
Tuesday - Building kiln part II
Wednesday - Finish kiln and ash glazes.
Thursday - Finish kiln and ash glazes.
Friday - Loading the kiln and firing.
Saturday - Free morning and open the kiln at night.
Sunday - Goodbyes 🥲
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The Salemi Project wants to make Salemi a recognised centre for contemporary ceramic art. Come and be part of it!
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