Most of us got into ceramics because of the clay: learning it, handling it, responding to it. Making pots is what we love to do; glazing? Not so much. This workshop will explore ways to bring some of the creative juice of making into thinking about the surfaces of our work. We will talk about texture and slips as well as experiment with ideas from ceramic history and room-temperature techniques. Participants should bring a couple of leather-hard pieces to play with; texture tools, brushes, a sketchbook, and an open mind. Workshop will focus on mid-range electric firing but the ideas and exercises will be relevant to any firing process.
There will be a break for lunch both days. Feel free to bring your own lunch or visit one of the many restaurants within walking distance.
If you are curious about Mary Barringer’s workshop but haven’t decided whether or not to sign up you may consider attending her artist talk. This will take place on Tuesday, April 29, 2025 from 12:30 – 1:30 pm.
Mary Barringer received a BA in art from Bennington College, apprenticed with Michael Frimkess, and has been a studio artist since 1973, making both sculpture and functional pottery. Her work has been exhibited internationally, and she has taught widely at universities, art schools, and craft centers including Ohio University, Hartford Art School, Penland, and Anderson Ranch. She has written and lectured on the history of ceramics, and from 2004 until 2014 she served as editor of The Studio Potter journal. Since stepping down from that role, she has done freelance editing and writing along with her studio work. She lives and works in western Massachusetts.
