The Cup: Design & Refine-S326 THU 7:30PM

Course Description

Many potters make something different every time they sit at the wheel. The ones who improve the fastest often do so by choosing one form and refining it. In this six-week course, students focus on designing and perfecting a single functional cup. Whether thrown or handbuilt, you will create multiple versions of the same form while studying proportion, balance, comfort, handle placement if applicable, and surface treatment. We begin by examining strong examples of well-designed ceramic work and replicating forms to better understand structure and proportion. From there, each week builds on the last. Students refine subtle details, adjust scale, trim and alter with intention, and evaluate how glaze supports or distracts from the design. By working in series and comparing iterations side by side, participants develop control, consistency, and a clearer personal design process. The goal is not to make more cups, but to make one that truly works and can be replicated. Prerequisite: Completion of Potter’s Wheel Basics, Sculpting with Coils, Pinch, Slab, Sculpt, or comparable experience. Students should be comfortable independently creating a simple cup form by wheel or handbuilding. Course Benefits: -Open Studio Time: Practice and perfect your skills outside of class hours. Check the Student Practice page on our website for current hours. -25 Pounds of Clay: Includes firing and glazing, so you have plenty of material to experiment with. -Access to Basic Tools: All necessary tools are provided during class. Feel free to bring your own towel and apron for added comfort. Please note, there are no makeup classes for this course. If you need to miss a class, speak with your instructor about what you'll miss and plan to get extra studio practice that week to stay on track.