Art Spot on the Go: Ceramics Cone 10 Workshop
- Instructor: Sharon Speedy
- Location: Summit High School
- Single Session $125
- Two Sessions: $200 (Email mgemlo@silverthorne.org for two session registration)
Session 1
- Open Studio: April 8th & 10th 5:00 to 8:00 P.M.
- Glazing: May 6th 5:00 to 9:00 P.M.
Session 2
- Open Studio: April 15th & 17th 5:00 to 8:00 P.M.
- Glazing: May 6th 5:00 to 9:00 P.M.
Step into the rich, dynamic world of cone 10 reduction firing. This process transforms clay and glaze in ways that electric kilns simply cannot replicate. If you haven’t yet experienced the depth of color, surface variation, and atmospheric effects of a gas-fired reduction kiln, this class offers a rare and exciting opportunity to do so.
Designed for experienced ceramic artists, this open-studio style course provides dedicated time exploring cone 10 clay bodies through both wheel throwing and hand-building techniques. Participants are encouraged to come with project ideas or a spirit of experimentation, as this firing method rewards thoughtful form, surface, and glaze interaction.
On the first day, we will review key considerations specific to cone 10 reduction, including clay behavior at high temperatures, glaze compatibility, and structural integrity. Because the intensity of this firing can cause warping or slumping, not all forms are suitable, and attention will be given to designing and constructing work that can withstand the process successfully.
All work will be created, bisque fired and glazed at Summit High School to ensure proper handling of cone 10 materials, which will NOT be allowed in other community studio spaces. The schedule includes (2) 2-day open studio sessions focused on forming and refining work, followed by a two-week period for drying and bisque firing. The course concludes with a dedicated glazing session, where we will prepare pieces for the final reduction firing.
This class is ideal for those with prior experience on the pottery wheel or in hand-building who are ready to deepen their understanding of high-fire ceramics. Participants will leave not only with finished work, but with a stronger grasp of how flame, atmosphere, and material interact to create truly unique surfaces.
REGISTRATION DEADLINE: April 1st
Participants receive 25lbs of clay of their choice included in registration fee. Choose 25lbs of one body or ½ and ½. Participants can purchase an additional bag of clay for a $40 fee.
Rocky Mountain Dover: A durable, mid to high-fire stoneware clay with good plasticity, great for wheel throwing and functional ware, typically fires to a warm buff/light color.
Laguna Babu Porcelain: A smooth, translucent porcelain known for its fine texture and bright white finish, excellent for detailed work but less forgiving to handle.
Laguna Los Altos A high-fire stoneware with grog, giving it strength and texture, ideal for larger or sculptural pieces and holds its shape well in the kiln.
Please email mgemlo@silverthorne.org with your clay choice no later than April 1st.
