Two Week Pottery Experience

Participants of the 2-week Driving Creek Pottery Experience will delve into the pottery-making process, concentrating on wheel throwing and exploring various decorating techniques, such as using slips suitable for the soda kiln. The course culminates in wood firing the pots in the Phoenix soda kiln. All materials are included, and a selection of glazes will be available, with the option for participants to bring their own cone 10 reduction glazes.

With over a decade of experience, including apprenticing and working at the Leach Pottery in St. Ives for eight years, Callum brings a wealth of knowledge to the course. Set in the tranquil and inspiring environment of Coromandel’s Driving Creek, the workshop offers an opportunity for potters to refine their craft and draw inspiration from the natural surroundings.

Workshop Highlights:

● Expert Guidance by Callum Trudgeon: Learn from Driving Creek’s lead production potter, Callum Trudgeon. With over 10 years of experience, including an apprenticeship at the prestigious Leach Pottery in St. Ives, Callum has also traveled to Japan and Denmark to master wood firing techniques, bringing unparalleled expertise and passion to the workshop.

● Focused on Wheel Throwing: Perfect your wheel throwing skills, as this will be the primary making method taught throughout the course.

● Comprehensive Pottery Process: Go through the entire pottery-making journey, from throwing pots on the potter’s wheel, to glaze application, to wood firing in the Phoenix soda kiln.

● Variety of Decorating Techniques: Learn and apply various decorating techniques, including the use of slips suitable for the soda kiln.

● Selection of Glazes: Access a range of glazes provided by us. If participants wish to bring their own glazes, please ensure they are suitable for cone 10 reduction.

● All Materials Included: High-quality materials and tools are provided, ensuring you have everything you need to create your masterpieces.

● Inspiring Environment: Set in the picturesque surroundings of Driving Creek, draw inspiration from nature and the tranquil atmosphere.

● Community & Connection: Join a supportive community of like-minded individuals. Share ideas, collaborate, and create lasting friendships.

Course Schedule:

(This schedule is only a rough outline and can change during the course if necessary.)

Day 1: Throwing cylinders and progressing to other cylindrical forms including jugs, jars, vases, bottles etc.

Day 2: Move onto bowls and other forms including footed and unfooted bowls, plates, platters etc.

Day 3 & 4: Self directed throwing any pots desired, guidance from tutor throughout.

Day 5 & 6: Finishing pots from the previous days. Pulled handels, turning and a variety of decorating techniques including slip work.

In the evening of the 6th day there will be a pizza party at Driving Creek with the current artists in residence and some of the Driving Creek pottery team.

Day 7, 8 & 9: These are free days while the pots made are processed and bisc fired ready for glazing and firing.

During this time the participants will be able to ride the train and go on the zipline at Driving Creek. This can be organised with the tutor during the first part of the course. Otherwise participants can use this time as they wish.

Day 10: Glazing. A selection of glazes will be available to use and you will receive tuition on pouring and dipping glazing techniques.

Day 11: Packing the wood kiln. Participants will learn how to pack a wood kiln. A firing schedule will be organised for the following day.

Day 12: Firing. Participants will know their shift on the kiln and will have guidance throughout.

Day 13: A free day to rest or explore while the kiln cools.

Day 14: Unpack the kiln. Clean all pots, shelves and props. Discuss the results and finish the course.

Participants are required to be fully covered in clothes made from natural materials for the firing. Health and safety procedures will be discussed at the relevant points during the course.

Tools, material and health and safety equipment will be provided. If you have particular tools you like to use then bring them with you. Packing and shipping of finished work can be organised at an extra cost.