In this all levels class, through demonstration and explanation, we will focus on throwing and trimming cylinders. Day one will focus on throwing cylinder/cup forms and day two will focus on trimming, adding handles and investigating underglaze surface work.

REGISTER

$55.00

Our special projects classes are intended to complement and add to your throwing skill set by focusing on a single advanced technique. To get the most out of this class we ask that you feel comfortable centering and pulling up cylinders before enrolling. 

In this special project class we will review, discuss and demonstrate a handful of lidded vessel forms. We will spend time on lid fit, lid handles, design, technique and finishing methods.

FREE FAMILY CLAY PLAYS

Learn about an aspect of local ecology through hands-on clay arts projects!

In collaboration with the Willapa National Wildlife Refuge.

at Ilwaco Artworks Community Clay Studio – 109 1st Ave N Ilwaco, WA.

For children Pre-K through 3rd grade & their accompanying adults/siblings.

Thanks to a generous grant from ArtsWA, our Family Clay Plays are offered at no tuition cost! We have a sliding scale registration fee of $0-$25 per person, which includes all materials, glazing, and firing for 1-2 pieces.

OBVARA RAKU AT ILWACO ARTWORKS

$40-$60/person. Ages 10-13 w/an adult or ages 14+. All levels welcome.

REGISTER

In this hands-on class, you’ll explore alternative firing methods in a communal kiln firing setting.

Option one $40: Pick up 2lbs of raku clay at the studio any time after purchase and build your pieces at home. Drop your work off at the studio to be bisque-fired by 3/12. Then, join us for the raku fire, 3/22, where we will glaze and fire your pieces and they will be ready to take home that day. Basic tools kits are also for sale in the studio.

Option two $60: Join us on 3/22 and choose from pre-made, bisqued pieces to be glazed and fired and taken home that day!

Obvara—also known as “Baltic Raku”—is a little known Eastern European technique in which pottery, fresh from the kiln, is quickly submerged into a fermented mixture of water, sugar, and yeast. This process results in organic, black-and-white surface patterns and pigmentation that are completely unique, and is completed in under an hour.

American Raku is a contemporary take on the traditional Japanese method. In this process, works are removed from the kiln at peak heat, where rapid oxidation or combustible reduction produces dramatic surface effects on the clay and glaze. The results, uniquely colored by fire and smoke, are ready to handle in less than an hour. While pre-made ceramic vessels are provided by Ilwaco Artworks, students are encouraged to create their own pieces.