Nerikomi: Coloured Porcelain with Josephine Townsend

Description

Nerikomi is a technique that uses layers of differently coloured porcelain to create intricate patterns within the clay itself. The process combines careful preparation, pattern development and an understanding of how colour and form interact, creating possibilities that extend well beyond surface decoration.

In this three-day course, Josephine Townsend will introduce participants to her approach to working with coloured porcelain, sharing practical techniques for preparing, colouring, layering and manipulating clay to create distinctive Nerikomi patterns.

The course begins with an exploration of colour and pattern. Participants will learn how to prepare and colour porcelain, develop patterned canes and experiment with layering and slicing to reveal the patterns within the clay. Jo will demonstrate how small changes in colour, arrangement and cutting can produce very different results.

The second day moves from pattern into form. Participants will develop patterned slabs and building blocks before exploring ways to use Nerikomi slabs to construct simple forms. Attention will be given to working with the characteristics of porcelain and understanding how the pattern behaves as the clay is manipulated.

The final day focuses on developing and resolving an individual piece. Following a review of test tiles, participants will refine existing work, continue developing a piece and consider finishing and firing options. There will be opportunities to troubleshoot, discuss individual approaches and receive feedback throughout the day.

Each day combines demonstration, discussion and supported studio time, allowing participants to apply techniques directly to their own work and develop their understanding through experimentation.

This course is ideal for intermediate and advanced ceramicists who would like to explore coloured porcelain, develop their approach to pattern and incorporate Nerikomi techniques into their own ceramic practice.

Throughout the course, you will:

• Explore the principles and processes of Nerikomi using coloured porcelain.
• Learn how to prepare and colour porcelain for pattern making.
• Develop patterned canes and blocks using a range of layering and slicing techniques.
• Experiment with colour combinations and pattern development.
• Explore ways to translate patterned porcelain into simple forms.
• Review test tiles and consider firing and finishing options.
• Build confidence in incorporating Nerikomi techniques into your own ceramic practice.

FACILITATOR BIO

Josephine Townsend

Josephine Townsend is a Canberra-based ceramic artist and educator who has been working with clay since the late 1990s. Her practice explores the colours, textures and patterns of the Australian landscape, with functional, sculptural and decorative work made using both the potter’s wheel and handbuilding techniques.

Josephine is particularly known for her work with coloured porcelain and Nerikomi, creating intricate patterns that celebrate the delicacy, translucence and vibrant colour of porcelain. Alongside her studio practice, she teaches ceramics at Canberra Potters, sharing her practical knowledge and experience with emerging and established makers.

Website: josephinetownsendceramics.net.au
Instagram: @townsendjosephine

COURSE STRUCTURE

Day 1: Colour & Pattern

Welcome and introduction to Nerikomi and Josephine’s approach.

Demonstrations and hands-on exploration will cover preparing and colouring porcelain, experimenting with colour combinations, and developing patterns through layering, slicing and construction.

Participants will develop patterned canes and explore how different arrangements and cutting techniques reveal the pattern within the clay.

The day concludes with a review and discussion of the work produced.

Test tiles will be fired in the Canberra Potters kiln for review on Day 3.

Day 2: Pattern to Form

Review of Day 1 techniques followed by further demonstrations and studio exploration.

Participants will develop patterned slabs and building blocks before exploring ways to use Nerikomi slabs to create simple forms.

The focus will be on understanding how patterned porcelain responds to construction and manipulation, with time to troubleshoot and prepare work for Day 3.

Day 3: Develop & Resolve

Review of test tiles followed by demonstrations and supported studio time.

Participants will refine and develop existing work, continuing a piece or exploring new approaches to the techniques introduced during the course.

The day will include discussion of firing and finishing options, with time to resolve work and reflect on individual approaches to Nerikomi.

5pm – 6pm: Glass of wine and informal mingle.

OUTCOMES

By the end of the course, you will have:

• Developed an understanding of the fundamental processes involved in Nerikomi.
• Learned practical techniques for preparing and colouring porcelain.
• Created patterned canes, slabs and building blocks.
• Explored ways to translate Nerikomi patterns into three-dimensional forms.
• Developed test pieces and individual work through experimentation and guided practice.
• Increased your confidence in working with coloured porcelain and incorporating Nerikomi into your ceramic practice.

Notes

This course is ideal for intermediate and advanced ceramicists who wish to expand their technical skillset and explore coloured porcelain and pattern-making techniques.

Fees: Includes porcelain clay, firing of test tiles, tuition, studio access, light morning tea, coffee and tea, a cold drink and nibbles.

WHAT TO BRING

• Personal toolkit, including a scraper rib
• Sketchbook and drawing materials such as pencils.
• Your own lunch each day – fridge and microwave available.
• Sturdy, covered shoes.
• Long hair must be tied back. Please leave precious jewellery at home for safety.