Ancient art of slipware carving

Slipware carving is a tradition that has been used extensively for items such as harvest jugs, commemorative wares, tile making and so on. Today’s artists are reinterpreting slipware carving with 21st century ideas and concepts as well as developing the traditional approaches to new levels.

As in lino-cutting, slipware carving's pattern-forming process involves cutting to reveal the dark areas of the design, so it is ideal for anyone who enjoys design, drawing or painting as well as for experienced ceramicists and potters looking to explore this traditional technique and its application to their current practice.

Workshop tutors are Tony Hall, nationally renowned thrower of big pots, and a sculptor of national recognition who recently won the 2014 National Portrait Sculpture top award, and Lois Hopwood, well-known artist and draughtsperson, winner of the National ING Drawing Prize in 2013 with her own personal approach to slipware carving.

The workshop fee of £65 per day includes one slipware pot ready for design and decoration. Additional pots can be purchased for £40 (to include glazing and firing). The workshops are promoted and managed by the Sidney Nolan Trust as part of the Crossings programme. They are part of a collaborative association with Castle Hill Studios where the workshops take place.

Download a booking form at sidneynolantrust.org