By Japneet Kaur
In October 2024, Commonage Pottery transformed into a vibrant hub of ceramic creativity, hosting a transformative five-day glaze development workshop led by renowned ceramic artist Gary Hambleton. This immersive experience brought together a diverse group of enthusiasts, from seasoned professionals to budding artists, to explore the intricate world of glazing and firing techniques.
Under the expert guidance of Gary Hambleton and myself, participants delved into the fundamental principles of glaze chemistry and firing processes. Each day was a journey of discovery, with hands-on activities that ignited the imagination and challenged the boundaries of ceramic expression.
A Glimpse into the Workshop:
Day 1: Laying the Foundation Participants began by developing base glazes and honing their application techniques. This foundational knowledge set the stage for the subsequent days of experimentation.
Day 2: The Alchemy of Reduction Firing The focus shifted to the art of reduction firing, where participants learned to harness the power of minerals and their transformative effects on glazes.
Day 3: Unveiling the Palette With a deeper understanding of glaze chemistry, participants embarked on creating line blends, triaxial blends, and over-underglaze palettes, resulting in a stunning array of 144 glaze test tiles.
Day 4: A Second Firing The excitement continued as participants fired another round of glaze test tiles, eager to witness the results of their experimentation.
Day 5: The Grand Finale The workshop culminated in a comprehensive review of the glaze test tiles, where participants analysed each tile and documented their findings. This final day was a crucial step in the process of developing a personalised glaze palette.
A Community of Creative Minds
The workshop attracted a diverse group of participants, including Debra Renn, Kerry Bennette, and Sally Simpson from Dunsborough, Martha, a talented potter from Margaret River, and Merja, a creative school teacher. By the end of the five-day intensive, participants had not only gained a profound understanding of glaze development and firing techniques but also formed a strong bond with fellow enthusiasts. The shared experience of experimentation, discovery, and artistic expression fostered a sense of camaraderie and inspired future creative endeavours.
A Festive Finale: Celebrating Creativity and Birthdays
The final day of the glaze development workshop was marked not only by the culmination of intensive learning but also by a joyous celebration. As participants delved into the final analysis of their glaze test tiles, the air was filled with excitement and anticipation.
To mark the occasion, a special surprise was in store: a birthday celebration for Sally Simpson! The workshop attendees gathered to raise a glass of bubbly and indulge in a delicious cake, creating a warm and festive atmosphere. This shared moment of joy further strengthened the sense of community and camaraderie among the participants.
Sharing the Palette: A Core Value
At the heart of the workshop lies a profound belief in the power of sharing knowledge and inspiring creativity. Both Gary Hambleton and Japneet Keith are passionate about fostering a supportive and collaborative environment where artists can learn from one another and push the boundaries of their craft. By sharing their expertise and encouraging experimentation, they hope to empower the next generation of ceramic artists.
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