Gas firings to resume | Pottery Throwdown | Raku firing reminder | Diploma news | PWC funding | Another Friday night class | PWC and Open Studio times
Sandra's adorable animals
Gas firings to resume
It has been a long wait but at last the replacement monitor has arrived! The wait was even longer than expected as there were a series of miscommunications along the supply chain.
We will run a few club firings in quick succession to get caught up with the backlog. Once we have the backlog fired, we will be in touch to book in people who are on the waiting list to book their private firings.
Countdown to tomorrow's event
We are gearing up for tomorrow's Might Waikato Pottery Throwdown. The clay is being prepared and we are almost ready to go.
If you have not sent in a form, and you have some free time tomorrow afternoon and don't want to miss out on the fun, just rock up at and join in. We will probably be able to squeeze you on to an activity. Just a reminder that this is an event for WSP members though - we are trying to offer some more events for our membership.
We have heard a few people say they don't think they have the skills to participate and I want to reassure you that there is something for everyone - the experienced, the beginner and then there are a few challenges that are simply some silly fun. It's all about having a laugh.
2-5pm tomorrow. Hope to see you there!
Raku firing
David is firing up the raku kiln on Saturday 27th August. This is a great opportunity to have a go at getting more involved in a firing than simply placing your piece on the shelf and getting a finished object back a week later. It's also much more exciting, with flames, sparks and smoke involved, and a unique surface finish to your final piece.
We have all the PPE equipment you will need, but you must wear long sleeves and pants and closed shoes on the day.
If it is your first time with the raku and you want a little guidance on how to make your piece or the glazes you can use, get in touch with us to ask.
The firing will run during Play with Clay that morning. Book online...
Diploma news
If you are dreaming of a career as a practicing artist, the Diploma in Ceramic Arts might be for you. You can study for the diploma with Otago Polytechnic here in Hamilton, through the Waikato Society of Potters. Delivery is both online and through practical sessions run through our studio in Hamilton.
Next year, we are welcoming Alex Wilkinson back to work on the diploma programme as Diploma Coordinator, and co-tutoring with Yasmin Davis. Together, they will be a strong team delivering the support and content you will need.
If you would like to chat about whether the diploma is right for you, please get in touch: manager@waikatopotters.co.nz
Play with Clay funding
We have a grant from Trust Waikato to cover costs for a limited number of people to have a go at pottery. We are thrilled to be able to introduce the wider community to clay. The funding is for people to attend one supported session of Play With Clay which, at this point, are held on Wednesday mornings. Clay and firing costs will be provided up to a cost of $10 for the session and you will be supported to get started. The funding is for one free session only.
To attend a funded place, you will need to book in advance as we need to ensure there is enough support for everyone. Please email manager@waikatopotters.co.nz to enquire about booking a place while funds last.
Friday night Introduction to Pottery class now open
Starting 2nd September for 4 weeks
Tutor: David Kenny
Our evening classes book out fast so it is recommended that you book quickly to avoid disappointment. We are now taking bookings for the next 4 week introductory class. David will teach the basic techniques of both hand-building and wheel throwing. Find out more or book...
Studio access next week in the studio
Open Studio
Monday-Thursday 1-4pm
Play With Clay
Tuesday 6-9pm, Wednesday 9.30am-12.30pm, Saturday 10am-1pm
