Pottery and Slip Casting

About the Tutor: David Richardson

My approach to making in clay is very practical with frequent demonstrations backed up by illustrated notes. I believe that there should be nothing to fear in the process of slip casting, as it requires a moderate amount of skill but a great deal of thought and planning.

I’m very keen to see illustrations and diagrams from students at the beginning of a project, as this will ultimately help with its success. I teach all kinds of slip casting processes from hollow cast vases, bowls and lidded pots, through to core cast flatware such as plates and handles.

I studied sculpture at Liverpool Polytechnic BA hons followed by 35 years of Model and Mouldmaking. This included making and selling my own range of decorative terracotta garden ware from 1994- 2005, I used to sell this globally as well as at Chelsea and Hampton Court flower shows. I sold the company to continue with my modelmaking and the ware is still being produced today. My clients include Potters, Artists & Designers who require models and moulds, everything from large scale tableware to figurative sculpture.

View all courses taught by David Richardson here

Your tutor will use a variety of teaching methods including demonstrations, one to one guidance, group discussions and critiques. You will look at the work of contemporary and historical artists and/or craftspeople and you will keep a sketchbook/notebook and individual learning plan to record your goals, ideas, processes and progress. Students will need to understand the potential benefit from the programme of study, read and interpret ideas, communicate responses that are clear, logical and understandable and manage your own time. You will undertake critical evaluation and be motivated to develop creative skills and enhance/develop personal skills.
The tutor will provide feedback on your work through one to one guidance and group critiques. You will be able to self-assess against your individualised learning outcomes stated on the ILP.

Please wear old clothes and shoes. All pots are paid for by fired weight at a reasonable rate. Health and safety issues will be discussed and you will be instructed in the application of safe working practices. Basic equipment will be provided but you may want to build up your own selection of pottery tools as you progress. Tutor (David Richardson) will provide a range of plaster moulds and slip as part of the course. Using fluid casting slip, Plaster of Paris moulds draw water out of the liquid clay body to leave a “skin” of clay lining the inside of the mould. You will taught the basic timings, how to trim, sponge and fettle the cast items.

Higher level pottery and ceramic courses.

No previous pottery experience is necessary. Bring sketchbooks, magazine cuttings, photos for inspiration.