Hand Building Fundamentals

This class will provide an introduction to the JAC Ceramics Studio and the basic handbuilding techniques of pinching, slab building, coiling, attaching and surface decoration. The building of both functional and non-functional wares will be taught, with a special emphasis on sculptural forms. The stages of clay will be discussed and various glazing techniques will be demonstrated as students explore the many-layered process involved in creating ceramic works from start to finish. Open to all skill levels, this class is perfect for students who are brand new to ceramics, as well as those more experienced who would like to learn new techniques or brush up on skills. More advanced students may work independently while receiving guidance from the instructor as needed. Please note: we will not cover wheel throwing in this class. Please see our Wheel Throwing Fundamentals classes on Wednesday evenings and Saturday mornings for specific wheel throwing instruction. 

All materials are provided for this class, however, students must purchase any additional clay directly from the JAC to use in the studio The cost is $45 per 25 lb bag and includes all glazing and firing service fees. Any clay purchased elsewhere cannot be fired at JAC. Unlimited access to the ceramics studio duringOpen Studio Hours is included for the duration of the class.

Scholarships available! Fill out an application here.

CANCELLATION & REFUND POLICY

• A student withdrawing before the start of a class, workshop, or camp, must notify the Jamestown Arts Center of their intent to withdraw ten (10) business days or more before the start date to receive the class fee less a 3.5% processing fee.

• A student withdrawing from a class, workshop, or camp less than ten (10) business days but more than five (5) business days before the start date must notify the Jamestown Arts Center of their intent to withdraw to receive the class fee less a 25% processing fee.

• A student withdrawing from a class, workshop, or camp less than five (5) business days before the start date must notify the Jamestown Arts Center of his/her intent to withdraw and is not entitled to a refund nor will receive a credit (unless an extreme medical issue arises).

• We do not offer pro-rates to attend part of a course.

• The Jamestown Arts Center reserves the right to cancel any course, class, camp or workshop. In the event of cancellation, full refunds will be granted. Classes that are cancelled mid-session will be refunded for any remaining cancelled classes.

• Classes, workshops or camps postponed because of weather or factors beyond our control will be made up, if possible, at the end of the session. The JAC follows the school cancellation policy of North Kingstown School Department.