Ceramics
In 1966, American raku ceramicist Paul Soldner selected the site for what is now Anderson Ranch Arts Center, forming the foundation for a thriving ceramics program. Then and now, Anderson Ranch is a place where students exchange ideas and examine ceramic art and pottery-making techniques. It has always been a place where seminal moments of growth happen in an artist’s creative and critical thinking. Here, both beginning and emerging artists gain strong fundamental support, while established artists achieve new perspectives and advance their techniques.
The Ranch Ceramics team provides support, feedback and technical problem solving, giving each artist the freedom to experiment and grow. Our primary focus is on personal advancement through a process of creative discovery. We also offer community engagement through events like our Locals’ Clubs “Circle of Fire” where artists engage with the Ranch outside of the workshop setting.
The Soldner Ceramics Center makes up more than 10,000 square feet in three buildings. The Lyeth/Lyon kiln building is equipped with gas, electric, soda and wood kilns for both oxidation and reduction firings at all temperature ranges. The Ranch offers three wood kilns, four gas reduction kilns, one soda kiln and eleven high-temperature electric kilns.
Anderson Ranch is happy to extend a 20% tuition discount* in summer one- or two-week adult workshops for NCECA members. Please register online and then email [email protected] with your membership information and we will make the adjustment once you are in the system. You are also welcome to call 970-924-5089 to register. *Please note that the NCECA discount does not apply to The Center / Advanced Mentored Studies program, nor can it be combined with any other discount, scholarship or special offer.
Joanne Seongweon Lee
Studio Coordinator, Ceramics
Originally from South Korea, Joanne Seongweon Lee received her BFA from New York State College of Ceramics at Alfred University with a concentration in Ceramics in 2015. After graduation, she moved back to South Korea for an Artist in Residence program at the Korea Ceramic Foundation: Icheon Cerapia. She completed an MFA from Cranbrook Academy of Art in 2019 and achieved the Franz Rising Start Project Scholarship: Outstanding Performance in Porcelain Design in that same year. After graduating, she finished her Residency at Sonoma Ceramics in Sonoma, California. In 2021, Joanne taught numerous Ceramics courses for various levels at the James Madison University in Harrisonburg, Virginia.
Anderson Ranch Campus
Upcoming Workshops
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II
Level II
Students have a basic understanding of forming techniques, such as throwing and hand building. Students have taken one or two ceramics classes or workshops.
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III
Level III
Students have significant experience with clay forming techniques, such as throwing, hand building and modeling. Students are comfortable with ceramics equipment, such as wheels, extruders and slab rollers. Students are self-starting with some formal training and have taken a minimum of three classes or workshops.
Jul 15 - 26, 2024
9AM - 5PM
Exploring Forms: Hand-Building
Takuro Shibata, Hitomi Shibata
Tuition $1,600
Code C0708-24
Hand-building and coil-building are essential pottery-making techniques that offer infinite possibilities for creating unique forms. Takuro and Hitomi’s experience at Shigaraki provided them with valuable knowledge of various forming methods. In this workshop, Takuro and Hitomi demonstrate how to effectively make and handle coils, as well as how to connect the coils at the right timing. The workshop also discusses the importance of the drying process and how to carve and shape the clay to create unique vessel forms. The workshop's goal is to inspire participants to explore the endless possibilities of hand-building techniques and incorporate them into their own practice.
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Open to All
Students of any skill and knowledge level.
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Ages 12 - 15
Jul 15 - 19, 2024
9AM - 3PM
Wheel Throwing for Teens
Molly Altman
Tuition $650
Code C0709-24
Discover the endless possibilities in clay through pottery’s many creative forms, including bowls, plates, cups, and mugs. This workshop, designed specifically for teens, introduces students to the potter’s wheel. Students start with centering the clay and work their way to the creation of forms. Participants decorate their vessels with the Italian technique of maiolica, a white glaze that serves as a canvas for painting decoration.
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III
Level III
Students have significant experience with clay forming techniques, such as throwing, hand building and modeling. Students are comfortable with ceramics equipment, such as wheels, extruders and slab rollers. Students are self-starting with some formal training and have taken a minimum of three classes or workshops.
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IV
Level IV
Students have advanced skills and knowledge of the ceramics field. Students are highly motivated, have a minimum of five years experience in the field and have a portfolio of their artwork. Typical students are academics and professional artists.
Jul 15 - 26, 2024
9AM - 5PM
Sense of Place: The Artist's Voice
Doug Casebeer
Tuition $1,450
Code C0707-24
It is often said that we are a product of our environment, our background, and the sum of our experiences. This class explores these sources for inspiration through exercises and projects that tap the potential of the creative spirit. Students need an open mind to explore the depths of their own personal history for artistic ideas—and must have a willingness to fail. This advanced class focuses on taking risks with process and techniques as we work with high-fire clay to make vessels, sculptures, and pottery. Students can expect to leave with a better understanding of their art practice.