Are you keen to learn the fundamentals of teapot creation? Teapots are one of the most complex and satisfying functional objects to make. If you can centre 1kg of clay and from that, throw a cylinder that’s taller than it is wide, you're good to go! Suzy will guide you through the rest of the teapot journey!
During this 2-day workshop, you will learn how to understand the different components of a teapot, how to optimise their function, and how the teapot components interact with each other visually. You will have the opportunity to make and assemble two different thrown teapots, exploring different bodies, lids, handles and spouts.
What you need to bring:
- Inspiration! Photos of teapots or shapes you might like to make
- 2-4kg of a suitable clay of your choice, otherwise you can purchase clay on the day.
- Sponge on a stick (if you have one)
- A towel or apron (if you need one)
A little bit about Suzy Dunser
I first made a serious commitment to clay when I began the distance Diploma in Ceramics through Otago Polytechnic, which I completed in 2011. Since that time, I have worked as a pottery tutor as well as a maker, teaching primarily wheel-based skills as well as glazing and wood/saltfiring.
My work is based on vessel forms, and is usually functional. I have been drawn to creating ceramic versions of vernacular metal objects, such as oilcans, railway lanterns, and even basic tin cans, to call attention to the beauty of forms and objects that are often overlooked. I work with a variety of clays and firing methods, taking the opportunity to wood and salt/soda fire whenever I can.
My involvement in the New Zealand Ceramics community includes a term on the Council of Ceramics New Zealand (2012), five years as President of the Auckland Studio Potters Society (2013-2017), and currently as an admin on the New Zealand Studio Pottery, Technical, and Contemporary Clay Facebook groups.less
