This workshop is a great opportunity for potters looking to throw with larger volumes of clay and create bigger forms on the wheel. 

Under the experienced guidance of expert potter, Russell Gibbs, you will gain the skills and confidence required to:

• Throw with weights of clay outside of your comfort zone;

• Critically assess and edit;

• Finish forms on the wheel or leave extra clay for turning;

• Use minimum tools; and

• Reduce the water content when throwing.

You’ll start the day throwing with 1-2 lbs (500g - 1kg) of clay, and be encouraged to increase this incrementally as your confidence grows, reaching up to 9lb (approx. 4kg) over the day. 

You’ll use a range of different sized batts throughout the session to suit the size and type of work and learn how to attach these with a clay pad. 

The workshop will initially focus on creating cylinders, the origin form of most thrown pieces. Emphasis will be placed on refining and improving the techniques from the session and you’ll be encouraged to wire through and review what you throw. As the workshop progresses, Russell will work with you to create bowls, vases or jug forms. 

You’ll be shown how to prepare larger weights of clay with spiral wedging and how to improve making routines by recycling substandard work as you go. 

Clay Shed values exploration, experimentation and reducing our impact on the environment. As a learning focused session and to accommodate our values, this workshop does not include firings. All the works will be recycled at the end of the session.

Numbers are limited to 5 students ensuring you will have access to your own wheel and that there is enough time for individual guidance. 

Russell Gibbs has over 40 years of throwing experience. He has studied under and worked with an array of renowned British potters including Jim Malone, Mike Dodd, Colin Pearson and Kate Malone. As a journeyman potter, Russell has worked for various potteries in the UK and abroad, including the Leach Pottery St Ives, the USA, Germany, Greece and more recently in Morocco producing ware for the film Gladiator II. Russell set up his current studio, Cheddar Gorge Pottery in 2020. His work is sold at the Leach Pottery. 

Level: This workshop is suitable for potters who can centre, competently throw cylinders and bowls but want to conquer bigger forms.

Duration: Saturday 31st May 10.30am - 4.30pm

Includes: All materials, tools, tea and coffee (herbal and dairy free alternatives available). 

Tutor: Russell Gibbs

+Please wear clothes you don’t mind getting dirty+

Participants must be aged 18 years and over

Terms and Conditions.