Steve Williams

Demonstration

I will demonstrate various approaches to making using the potters wheel and techniques to complete works without turning or waiting for clay to firm.

All my forms are removed from the wheel whilst plastic/soft and the base or footed area is formed by the relocation of clay .... no addition or subtraction.

Completed forms would include teapots, various size bowls, handled cups, beakers, platters, plates, jars and pourers.

I will share my thoughts on design and the importance of understanding visual weight, negative space and points of a vessel, and how these elements define and shape the ‘character’ of your work.

In the afternoon session I will demonstrate approaches to mixing ash glazes and raw glazing onto pots completed in the morning session.

Questions, discussion and note taking encouraged.

Practice Led Paper

‘Tales of a Late Career Teapot Maker’

In my paper/presenation I will share my studio practice ... contemporary application utilising ’low technology’, punctuated with the following threads.

• Curiosity ... Where do ideas come from?

• Innovation/invention and the human need for creativity

• What is design and why does it matter?

• The pros and cons of isolation

• The kickwheel and technology

• Why woodfire and why crush rocks