Ceramics: Hand Building with Blair Masters

This six-week course offers an in-depth exploration of ceramic hand–building techniques, from pinching and coiling to slab construction and surface design. Open to all levels, the course is especially well suited for students looking to develop or deepen their ceramic practice through a structured, hands-on studio experience.

Led by Blair Masters, students will learn to create both functional and sculptural forms while developing confidence in a variety of traditional and contemporary hand–building methods.

• Weeks 1-3: Participants will explore foundational techniques including slab building, coiling, and surface decoration, while being encouraged to experiment with their own ideas and creative direction. Demonstrations will include approaches to texture, form, and composition, as well as decorative processes using slips, oxides, underglazes, and carving techniques.
• Week 4: Reserved to fire the student works to bisqueware. The class will not meet this week.
• Week 5: Students return to glaze their work, exploring glazing techniques and color application to complete their finished surfaces.
• Week 6: Concludes with the glaze firing. The class will not meet this week.

By the end of the course, each participant will have completed at least one ceramic piece from concept to finished form, while gaining practical experience across the full ceramic process. More than a technical course, the workshop offers space for experimentation, creative growth, and the confidence to continue working with clay beyond the studio.

Dates: Tuesdays, October 27 – December 1 (no class on November 17 or December 1, firings are scheduled for these dates)

Duration: 6 weeks

Time: 11am-1pm

Artist Facilitator: Blair Masters

Class Size: Maximum of 10 participants to ensure individualized attention and a supportive environment.

Age group: Adults and teens aged 16+

Skill level: All skill levels

Location: Masterworks Museum of Bermuda Art's Classroom

Workshop Fee: $375 Members/$425 Non-members; application for artists facing financial barriers here; under 18 bursary application here.

Age Group: Adults and teens +16 years old

Materials: All supplies provided.