Ceramics: Intermediate & Beyond

Multiple Course Dates Available (See Above)

These are 7-week courses that will run every Tuesday Evening within in the dates listed above.

NOTE: There will be NO class on the 9th of June, but there will be an extra session so the affected course totals to 7 weeks.

Class Times:  6:00pm - 9:00pm

With Tutor: Mel Ford

Take your ceramic skills to the next level in a supportive, hands-on environment.

This class is perfect for students who have mastered the basics and are ready to tackle bigger, bolder projects. You’ll work closely with your tutor through one-on-one discussions, discovering the best approach to bring your ideas to life. With tailored guidance, helpful technical tips, and step-by-step demonstrations as your project develops, you’ll be encouraged and supported every step of the way.

Join us in a friendly, well-equipped ceramics studio where skills are honed, creativity flourishes, and ideas are transformed into exciting finished pieces!

What You'll Learn:

By the end of this course, you will:

• Create ceramic objects developed from your own creative goals, ideas, and projects.
• Learn a variety of techniques tailored to your individual project, helping you extend and strengthen your creative practice.
  
  

Course Structure:

Week 1: Introductions & Studio Orientation

• Welcome and introductions
• Studio orientation and health & safety guidelines
• Group and individual discussions about project ideas and possible construction approaches
• Begin maquettes, rough small versions of your planned project, or sketches
  
  

Week 2: Project Planning & Construction Guidance

• Further individual discussions about projects
• Assistance with potential construction approaches, tailored to each student’s project
  
  

Weeks 3 - 6: Project Development

• Focus on individual project development
• Technical guidance and demonstrations provided as needed
• Observe other students’ work to broaden understanding of techniques
• Apply textures, coloured slips, and underglazes
• Bisque firing occurs during this phase
  
  

Weeks 6 - 7: Finishing & Glazing

• Complete projects, including final finishing, glazing, and grinding
• Any work requiring glazing in Week 7 can be uplifted after the final class; please discuss arrangements with your tutor
  

Meet Your Tutor:

Mel Ford graduated with a BFA from the University of Canterbury School of Fine Arts in 1989 and has spent more than 30 years immersed in creative industries, including theatre and film, community-based art spaces, and as both an artist and educator.

She has been a finalist in the Portage Ceramic Awards for over a decade, receiving awards, residencies, and an Honourable Mention in association with this prestigious annual event. Most recently, Mel received the People’s Choice Award for the 2025/2026 Portage Ceramic Awards. Her work was featured in Slip Cast – A Survey of Contemporary Studio Ceramics at the Dowse Art Museum, and her ceramics are held in several private collections, including Quartz, Museum of Studio Ceramics in Whanganui.

Since 2020, Mel has been an elected member of the artist-led space The See Here in Wellington. In 2024 she was selected to take part in the CRNZ-funded Object Maker Aotearoa Fellowship, which will culminate in a group exhibition in June 2026. 

melfordartist.com

“Mel is full of fun, knowledge and technical skills. She creates a friendly studio environment where we can explore ideas”

What Do I Need to Bring?

• Clay: 10–20 kg bags of clay can be purchased from the school shop on the first evening of class, or you may bring your preferred clay suitable for firing to cone 6 (1220 °C). If you’re unsure which clay to use for your project, please discuss options with your tutor. Check the shop or online for current prices and stock.
  
  
• Sketching/Reference Materials: Bring a sketch pad and drawing materials if you would like to use them to communicate ideas with your tutor. Alternatively, you can bring prepared drawings or reference materials for discussion.
  
  
• Protective Clothing: Please bring an apron or a work shirt. For the final two weeks, bring latex or vinyl gloves (dishwashing gloves are fine) for glazing.

What Will Be Provided?

We have a wide selection of tools, slips, glazes and underglazes!