In this hands-on two-day workshop, you will learn to hand build three-dimensional ceramic forms or sculptural wall works out of clay. You will be working primarily with slab building techniques to create pieces which tell a story.

Lihnida Krstanoska-Blazeska introduces surface design, decoration and treatment using clay, slip and underglaze. She guides you to use specific tools to layer and texture the forms, bringing them to life without needing to rely on glaze to add depth and colour to your work.

Working with a range of wooden and metal lino carving tools, you will employ sgraffito and carving techniques to inscribe and decorate the surface of your works drawing inspiration from personal images or drawn illustrations.

Whether you are looking to develop your existing ceramic skills, coming in with a specific idea, or simply wanting to play with the tactile materiality of clay, this workshop will support your practice. Catered to all levels, and guided every step of the way, the weekend workshop invites you to fully immerse yourself in the meditative and repetitive nature of clay making, painting and carving to produce unique sculptural works.

Selected pieces will be fired in the NAS kilns after the workshop. Please note, it may take up to four weeks after your course ends for works to be available for collection. We will notify you when they are ready for pick up.

* The course fee incorporates the cost for materials such as clay.

* NAS Short Courses are open to students of ages 16 years and over. The NAS Art Club is open to students from ages 15 years and over. 

* What to bring? Please refer to the list of required materials in the Art Materials field below. 

Students must supply their own art materials, please refer to the list below.

• Reference material eg photos, drawings etc
• A4 sketch pad or artist’s diary - any size, any paper
• Drawing materials - pencil, eraser, sharpener
• Apron or protective clothes (old shirt, apron, towel) 
• Set of basic ceramics tools (some basic tools are provided)
• Paint brushes - Ideal brush for applying slip is a ‘hake goat-hair’ brush, smaller regular brushes for underglaze
• Small paint pallet or small plastic container
• Needle tool - metal pick or skewer
• Lino carving tools - single tool or option of pack to allow for varied carving styles
• All clay and other materials are provided 
• A P2 disposable mask or higher-rated particulate respirator mask is required for the glazing room
• Enclosed footwear is essential in all studios on campus.