Master Class with David Walters

Master Class with David Walters

CERAMICS MASTER CLASS IN FRANSCHHOEK

A 4-day workshopin reduction firing with master potter David Walters

This is a rare opportunity to experience a hands-on master class in reduction firing with one of South African’s top potters while staying in an elegant guest house B&B and dining in interesting company at a superb restaurant in the most beautiful wine valley in the world. Winter rates make this a very special offer.

The seldom-offered course includes hands-on glazing, decorating, kiln packing, reduction firing of a purpose-built gas kiln, a wheel throwing demonstration, and the final opening of the gas kiln.

First day

Morning: arrive at the Ceramics Gallery at 10am for a guided tour and discussion of the techniques used in the studio. Start glazing a plate and a bowl made for you in advance by David (you will take these home!)

Break for a light lunch in the studio.

Afternoon: spent glazing, decorating, finishing and packing the trolley kiln.

Dinner:at a Franschhoek restaurant with a local master craftsman.

Second day

Morning:An early start at 7am for the lighting of the kiln and a discussion of what happens during the firing process. After this, there will be visits to local art galleries which could include Grande Provence, Ebony, IS Art, La Motte and Tokara.

Break for a light lunch in the studio.

Afternoon:this is when the reduction process kicks in and careful observation is needed. David will share glaze recipes and other secrets of the potter’s art. The kiln goes off at about6pm.

Dinner: at a Franschhoek restaurant with another local master craftsman.

Third day

Morning:the kiln is cooling. Gather at 10am when David will give an all-day throwing masterclass in the studio, using porcelain and stoneware, and making various pieces, including a range of dinnerware.

Break for a light lunch in the studio.

Dinner: at a Franschhoek restaurant.

Fourth day

Morning: while the kiln continues to cool, some of the pots thrown the day before are finished under supervision.

Break for light lunch in the studio.

Afternoon:the kiln should be ready to unpackso you can see the results before leaving for home.

COST

R5000 (per person sharing) covers tuition, materials, glaze recipes, gas firing and the pots to take home, visits to other galleries,B&B for three nights at Rusthof Country House or Akademie Street Guest Houses, and all meals (but not drinks). Course will take minimum of 6 people, maximum of 10.

Possible dates:-

29th and 30th April, 1st and 2nd May 2011

13th, 14th, 15th and 16th June 2011

4th, 5th, 6th and 7th July 2011

Please contact us on to book a time that suits you, and we will try and accommodate everybody. You can also phone us on 021 8764304.