This class is open to beginner and intermediate potters/clay sculptors. Beginners will have an introduction to working on the wheel and/or hand-building techniques. Intermediate students will have coaching to improve their skills and explore possible new techniques.
Classes are focused on having fun, destressing, and learning how to work with clay. Whether you are making bowls and cups or abstract sculptural forms, risk-taking is always encouraged.
The class instructor is Rob Droessler. He has been instructing ceramics for 26 years, 21 of those at Highline College. He has a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Minnesota State University, Mankato, and a Master of Fine Arts degree from Washington State University. Rob has shown his work nationally and has art in several private collections including the art collection of Seattle University.
Note: Ceramics is a very physically demanding craft, students need to be able to lift and carry 25lbs and follow all health and safety rules independently. Students must be able to follow multi-step directions and work independently without continuous assistance. Students must be capable of cleaning up all messes they create. Failure to do so will impact the health and safety of other students using the space. This class is not a one-on-one format. All instruction is given in demonstrations and lectures to the group, then as students work the instructor circulates to answer questions.
Supply List: * Should be available in the Highline Bookstore
Clay* - (clay purchased through the bookstore will be picked up in the ceramics classroom. Proof of purchase will be required by showing the instructor your receipt for clay.)
Basic pottery tool kit*
Fettling knife*
Serrated edge tool*
3-4 paint brushes 1/4 inch - 1 1/2 inches *
Large towel (helps keep you clean when at the pottery wheel)
Apron (helps keep you clean when at the pottery wheel)
Small container with a lid (examples - salsa container, cream cheese container, butter container)
Optional items –
If you wish to lock your locker you may bring in a combination paddle lock. No key locks, please. Give me a copy of your paddle lock combination with your name on it and your locker number.
Your own bucket.* I have buckets but some students prefer to get their own.
A new batt.* Batts are used when working on the pottery wheel. I Have lots of class batts for students to use but some students prefer a new one.
Name tag. If you want to help me remember your name, a name tag is a great way to do that. I will provide some sticker name tags but a pin or magnet-type name tag is better. I will encourage students to always wear an apron. If you keep a name tag on your apron it will help me and other students learn your name.