Hand Building Techniques - Session l

Hand Building Techniques - Session l

Class | Available

All Levels ages 16 +
1/21/2026-2/11/2026
3:30 PM-6:30 PM EST on Wed
$225.00
Member Discount Available

Hand Building Techniques - Session l

Class | Available

Class Description:
Discover the fundamentals of hand-built ceramics in this accessible and fun course designed for adults.  Over 4 weeks, students will learn to transform lumps of clay into functional or sculptural pieces using pinch, coil, or slab construction techniques.  We will cover essential processes from preparing the clay to surface decoration and glaze application.  The class emphasizes design principles, proper technique for structural integrity, and the basics of the glazing and firing processes.  Whether you aim to create a functional mug, a beautiful vase, or a unique sculpture, this course will provide you with a supportive environment within which to learn the craft, awaken your creativity.  All participants will take home finished pieces of which they can be proud.  No prior experience is necessary - just an eagerness to get your hands dirty and explore your creativity!

All skill levels welcome.

About the OAC Ceramics Studio:
You'll enjoy our professional, comfortable ceramics studio with hand building classes limited to just 8 participants.  Revel in the hands-on experience shared with like-minded creatives in a friendly and relaxed environment.  Choose from a variety of classes led by our teaching artists and admire the stunning views of Lake Michigan while you work!  The Oliver Art Center Ceramic Studio is the place to learn and have fun year-round!

What's included:
12 hours of instruction with artists Steve Kline
2 optional glaze/trim lab sessions per week
Use of studio tools and equipment
Up to 12 lbs. of clay (more available for purchase)
Assorted studio glazes
Bisque and glaze firing (volume based on available space)
Invitation to participate in student/faculty showcase exhibits


Class policies:
This class will run with a minimum of 3 registrants and a maximum of 8.  If a class day is canceled due to weather or other circumstances, a make-up day will be scheduled as soon as possible.  Refunds are applied if students drop the course no less than 1 week before the first day of class.  Missed days (not caused by OAC) will not be refunded.  Students are invited to register for this class consecutively throughout the year to continue their studioes, otherwise, all work must be completed during the 4-week session.  Work left longer than 30 days will be discarded.

Steve Kline

Steve Kline
A former instructor at Loyola University in New Orleans, Steve made a name for himself as an artist in Louisiana creating monumental sculptures for public and commercial spaces in a variety of mediums. His works can be found at Armstrong Park, Tulane University, and other locations. Now based in Frankfort, Steve continues to work in metal, wood, and clay to create original sculptural works and has been teaching and exhibiting at OAC for many years. His outdoor multifunctional sculptural bench "A Fold in Time" graces Traverse City's TART trail.


"A Fold in Time" 2024