From practical tools to objects of spiritual significance, pottery has always been deeply intertwined with cultural identity and daily life.
At the Corrie Bain International Ceramics School, we celebrate this global tradition by offering pottery courses that introduce students to techniques from around the world, all while providing a foundation in contemporary ceramic practices.
Let’s explore how different cultures have shaped the craft of ceramics:
A universal material
Clay, one of the most abundant natural resources on Earth, has been used by nearly every society throughout history. From the ancient porcelain of China to the hand-built pots of Zulu potters, the techniques and traditions that arise from working with clay vary greatly but share the same basic human desire: to create. At our school, students learn how to take these time-honoured methods and apply them in modern, innovative ways through our ceramics pottery courses.
Ancient China: the birthplace of porcelain
Chinese ceramics, especially porcelain, are some of the most well-known and prized in the world. Developed during the Tang Dynasty (618–907 AD), porcelain is a fine, strong ceramic that is fired at high temperatures, resulting in its smooth texture and translucent beauty. During the Ming Dynasty, porcelain’s distinctive blue and white designs became internationally renowned.
In our 3-month intensive pottery course, students spend a lot of time developing existing and new skills with school director Corrie Bain. Students wheel-throwing skills will be taken to the next level, with week-long workshops taught by Juan Ortí. Corrie works extensively with porcelain in her own practice, and guides students in working with this notoriously challenging clay. This training gives students a solid foundation to experiment with their own ceramic practice, whether they choose to use white porcelain or another material.
Japanese ceramics and raku firing
Raku pottery, developed in Japan in the 16th century, reflects the country’s Zen Buddhist principles through its simplicity and connection to nature. This method of making pottery, often used in tea ceremonies, embraces imperfection and natural beauty. The pieces are fired at low temperatures and removed from the kiln while still glowing hot, allowing the atmosphere to interact unpredictably with the glaze and clay, producing one-of-a-kind textures and colours.
During our pottery course, raku firing is one of the most exciting techniques students explore. We head to the studio of Sergi Pahissa in the Catalan countryside, where students learn to prepare their pieces and fire them using the raku method. By embracing the unpredictability of raku, students gain a deeper understanding of the interplay between materials, process, and outcome.
African handbuilding traditions
African pottery is a rich tapestry of traditions that vary widely across the continent, reflecting deep cultural and functional roots. In Nigeria, the Yoruba potters of Ilorin craft intricate, coiled vessels, while in Ghana, the Ewe people’s Kpando pottery is burnished for a smooth, smoky finish. Zulu potters in South Africa create ukhamba beer vessels with geometric patterns, and the Bamana women of Mali build large, textured water jars by hand. In Morocco, the potters of Fez are renowned for their colourful, glazed ceramics.
Handbuilding forms the foundation of our full time pottery course, where students master the traditional skills of coiling, pinching, and slab building. By learning these techniques, students are able to produce complex forms without the use of a wheel. This method encourages creative freedom, allowing for a more intuitive and tactile approach to creating ceramics. Understanding the cultural history behind these methods enriches the learning experience, providing context for their own exploration and innovation in the studio.
Exploring Korean buncheong
Korean buncheong pottery is a versatile and expressive ceramic tradition that emerged during the Joseon Dynasty (1392–1897). Characterised by its earthy clay body and dynamic surface techniques, buncheong pieces often feature white slip decoration applied with techniques like brushing, stamping, or inlaying, creating spontaneous, fluid designs. The bold, natural aesthetics of buncheong stand in contrast to the more refined celadon and porcelain styles Korea is also known for.
School director Corrie Bain spent two years living in South Korea, learning from Korean master ceramicists in the village of Anseong in Gyeonggi-do Province. She studied buncheong techniques firsthand, and her experience in Korea deeply informs the teaching at the Corrie Bain International Ceramics School, where students learn the essence of buncheong methods, including slip decoration and texturing techniques, encouraging experimentation and creative freedom in their own pottery. The 3-month intensive course introduces students to the rich heritage of Korean ceramics, offering them the opportunity to incorporate these techniques into their own practice.
Glaze chemistry: the science behind the art
While traditional methods such as handbuilding and burnishing are essential to ceramics, modern potters must also understand the science that underpins their craft. One of the key components of successful ceramics is glaze chemistry — the process of creating and applying the perfect glaze to achieve the desired colour, texture, and finish. Glazes are created by combining minerals and metal oxides with silica, and the firing temperature and atmosphere in the kiln can significantly affect the outcome.
In our 3-month pottery course, students are introduced to the fundamentals of glaze chemistry, learning how different materials react in the kiln and how they can manipulate the firing process to achieve specific results. This includes understanding the role of oxides, fluxes, and colourants, as well as the importance of controlling kiln temperatures and firing schedules.
Students experiment with creating their own glazes, exploring how to achieve various effects such as matte, glossy, or crystalline finishes. By understanding the science behind glazes, they gain the ability to customise their work, creating unique and personalised pieces.
The benefits of studying comparative ceramics
Studying ceramics from different cultures helps students gain a broader perspective on their craft. Understanding the historical, cultural, and scientific context of pottery techniques allows them to draw inspiration from a global tradition while developing their own style. Our studio offers a comprehensive approach, combining hands-on practice with theoretical knowledge, making it one of the best places for aspiring ceramists to hone their skills.
Our 3-month intensive pottery course covers everything from traditional handbuilding techniques to the latest advancements in glaze chemistry, providing students with a well-rounded education in ceramics. Whether you are looking to start a career in ceramics or simply want to expand your knowledge, this pottery course offers the perfect blend of technical expertise and creative exploration.
Are you ready to dive into the world of ceramics? Join us for our next pottery course and immerse yourself in the rich, diverse, and exciting traditions of clay from around the world.
Learn more about studying at Corrie Bain International Ceramics School.