Majolica Glaze Painting
Instructor: Robert J. Devers

In this course students will be introduced to the art of majolica glaze painting. We will begin by experimenting with various water color painting techniques designed to provide a fluid model for paint application which will then be translated into glaze painting on tiles and vessel formats. We will work with traditional still life and landscape formats, utilizing various on-site field trips into the surrounding areas for inspiration. Returning to the studio, students will translate what they have sketched into painterly motifs utilizing majolica glaze painting techniques on to fired ceramic tiles and vessel shapes.

Click here to see examples of Robert J. Devers' work.
Click here to see examples of Visual Arts faculty work.

Surface Design & Form
Instructor: Tamara Laird

We will visit artists, manufacturers, and museums in the Amalfi Coast area to view traditional and contemporary ceramics created with earthenware and majolica techniques and materials. These visits will provide the framework for class exploration in the studio. We will focus on the challenge of decoration and composition issues faced when applied to three-dimensional form. Demonstrations will include traditional and contemporary glaze techniques. Experiments with glaze formulation and materials will be discussed. Strategies for testing glaze compatibility, combining hybrid and commerically available glazes, will be introduced for use in the home studio.

Students will use commercially-made earthenware manufactured in Vietri sul Mare to experiment with glaze techniques and materials. A wide range of functional and decorative terra cotta designs manufactured in Vietri are available from local shops.

Click here to see examples of Tamara Laird's work.
Click here to see examples of Visual Arts faculty work.