Hand-Built Sculptures with Amy Smoot

In this three-day ceramics workshop, students will explore different hand-building techniques to create a free standing sculpture of their choice. Students will learn how to shape, coil, pinch, and carve their pieces to achieve different forms and textures. On the first day, students will start by learning basic hand-building techniques, such as slab building, coiling, and pinching, and will work on creating the overall structure of their sculpture. They will also have the opportunity to experiment with different surface textures and other decorative elements. On the second day, students will continue to refine and shape their pieces, adding more intricate details and attachments. On the last day, students will paint their pieces with colorful glazes, using brushes and other tools to create patterns and effects. Throughout the class, students will receive individualized instruction and feedback from the instructor, as well as opportunities to share and discuss their work with their peers. By the end of the class, they will have a completed ceramic sculpture that showcases their creativity and newly acquired skills! It may be helpful to come to class with a loose idea, sketch or reference pictures for personalized instruction. ​This workshop is limited to participants 18+. There is a minimum of 4 participants and a maximum of 10. If the minimum is not met, participants will be refunded.  This workshop will be held on three consecutive days--September 8-10, 2023. The times are: Friday September 8, 2023, 5-8 PM Saturday September 9, 2023, 1-4 PM Sunday September 10, 1-4 PM About Amy Smoot: Amy Smoot is from Carrollton, GA and currently resides in Tuscaloosa, AL. She received her BFA in ceramics from the University of West Georgia in 2015. While there, she was studio technician and research assistant in the ceramics area. In 2019 she received her MFA from The University of Alabama where she first began teaching ceramics as a graduate assistant. Her practice consists of all types of ceramics techniques including mold-making, slip-casting, hand building, and wheel thrown pottery.   This workshop is sponsored in part by the Alabama State Council on the Arts.