Private Hand Building or Wheel Throwing Workshop Experience

This experience is a Concentrated 3 Part Journey.

Course length: 3 sessions

Times: Most any weekday throughout the year

Glaze Chemistry and Application Session: To Be Determined (usually 2-4 weeks after first session)

Kiln Opening / Pick up: To Be Determined (usually 2-4 weeks after second session)

Group size: Just you and me 

Where: Billy Ritter 77 Studio, 3619 Walton Ave, Cleveland, OH 44113

Join me for an inspiring three part workshop where we will explore the parameters, process, and magic of making pottery using traditional hand-building or wheel throwing techniques. As your guide, I will introduce you to my methods to creating functional forms out of clay.  

This workshop experience is perfect for anyone of any skill set. Everyone will conclude this workshop with several items that they have created, along with an incredible compendium of knowledge on the ceramic process.

Everything you will need (clay, tools, glazes, towels, aprons, and firings), are included. 

Part One // MAKE

In our first session we will cover a lot of ground and techniques. As we learn the steps I will have you consider feeling, perception, and presence. Origins of clay, types of clay, and reclamation will be discussed as well as any other questions you may have. At the end of this opening night you will go home feeling accomplished, intrigued, and inspired by the exploration of process and possibility.    

Part Two // Glaze Chemistry Session

A few weeks after your first session, we will schedule your return to the studio for the Glaze Chemistry Session. This session is always a great time that lasts about an hour or so. On this second session of the workshop I will discuss the chemistry of glazes, proper glaze application, and the beauty of our Gas Fired Reduction kiln process, and why it is amazing. in this session you will glaze all of your creations from the first episode.

Part Three // Kiln Opening & Pick Up

To conclude the workshop you will be invited to the kiln opening and pick up session. After the firing, we will reunite one last time as we open the kiln and unload the bounty of your finished works. Here we will talk shop and admire all of your finished works.

The Experience Takeaway

• All of your handmade ceramic wares

• Two kiln firings of your wares (bisk & glaze)

• The actual steps of proper hand-building or wheel throwing as a vehicle to successfully make pottery 

• An evening of inspiration, encouragement, and memories to last a lifetime

• A private four hours with a master potter, and professor of ceramics (MFA -Kent State University / BFA -Slippery Rock University)

Simply call the studio to schedule your first session

216-407-1545

-Billy