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Explore the art of creating large ceramic forms in this immersive two-day workshop with acclaimed ceramicist Jo Taylor. This masterclass is perfect for intermediate potters who want to expand their skills beyond single-piece throwing and experiment with constructing multi-sectioned ceramic vessels. This method makes working at scale more manageable while still achieving precision and form.Over two days of demonstrations, hands-on practice and individual guidance, Jo will teach participants to:
Plan and throw multiple sections to construct larger ceramic forms
Develop confidence in thinking beyond a single piece in component-based construction
Join leather hard sections with precision and seamless results
Incorporate decorative elements, handles and feet
Explre creative wyas to build character and embellishment into vessels
Day One: Begins with an artist’s talk, offering insights into Jo’s practice and opportunities to handle her finished work. Participants will design their own piece and throw the required sections, which will firm to leather-hard overnight. Time permitting, decorative elements can also be prepared.
Day Two: Focuses on refining leather-hard sections, including light trimming if necessary, before joining them to build the final form. Participants will also consider adding decorative features, handles, and feet to enhance the character of their vessel.
With a maximum of 5 participants, the workshop ensures plenty of individual guidance while fostering a collaborative and supportive environment. At Clay Shed, our ethos emphasises learning and experimentation over completing fired work. For this workshop, we can offer a bisque firing for pieces up to 63 cm in height, but participants who are traveling or prefer to work at their own pace are welcome to take their pieces home at the end of the weekend.
About Jo Taylor: Based in Wiltshire, Jo Taylor is a ceramic artist represented by Vessel Gallery, London. Inspired by Rococo ornament, she creates contemporary sculptural vessels combining handbuilding, sprigging and wheel-throwing techniques. Jo holds an MA (Distinction), BA and PGCE from Bath Spa University and has exhibited widely, including COLLECT (Somerset House), Dublin Castle and Chichester Cathedral. Her awards include recognition at the 2025 British Ceramics Biennial, an ITV commission and authorship of Handbuilt Ceramics (2021). She teaches at leading institutions such as West Dean College and the Holburne Museum.
Class Size: Limited to ensure personalised guidance and a productive group dynamic.
Course Price: £275
Max Students: 5
Level: Suitable for those beyond the beginner stage who can control form and wall thickness; no prior experience with large forms is required - guidance will be provided throughout.
Duration: 10.30am - 4.30pm each day
Includes: Stoneware clay, bisque firing, tea and coffee (dairy-free and herbal alternatives)
Tutor: Jo Taylor
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Event Venue
Unit 6, Lawrence Hill Industrial Estate, Russell Town Avenue, BS5 9LT Bristol, United Kingdom, Auto Car Service, Bristol, BS5 9LT, United Kingdom
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