Ceramics program uses uni space

FEDERATION Uni is opening the doors of its state-of-the-art ceramic studios to anyone with an interest in the clay-shaping artform.

Based within the SMB Campus at the old Ballarat gaol, the studio will become the home of the Ceramic Heart program that includes a series of workshops.

Coordinator Dr Anindita Banerjee said the program’s components will utilise the space to its fullest.

“It’s a fantastic facility, and we’re trying to open it up for wider use amongst the community,” she said.

“There’s been a really good response to it all, and we’re super excited about showcasing everything.

“Through the types of interests that people are showing, it’s being made apparent to us that the city actually does have a lot of ceramic practitioners.

“Ceramics has really gained popularity again in the last four or five years, and it has so much potential in the contemporary art field, so giving it exposure like this has been really exciting.”

For those uninitiated or wanting a refresher on making ceramics, taster classes will run throughout April, with more dates set to be planned.

Another aspect of the program allows artists to have their works fired using the studio’s firing kiln on designated days.

Access to the equipment has been open to the public for some months, with options for bisque, earthenware, and glazing temperatures available at varying prices per kilo.

Finally, a series of masterclasses will be held on Saturdays throughout the coming months, which will see established artists teach varying styles and techniques throughout day-long workshops.

One of the creatives, Minaal Lawn, will hold her Pushing the Medium workshop on Saturday, 26 March.

“It’s going to be really nice to be in a studio environment with lots of people and lots of brains, and just seeing people making things that I wouldn’t ever expect to see,” she said.

“I don’t know if people realise this beautiful space is open for tuition or for firing services or for masterclasses like what we’ll be doing, so hopefully this’ll really highlight that for everyone who’s interested.”

The program is the result of a collaboration between Federation Uni and the City of Ballarat, and was made possible through a grant from Creative Victoria.

For more information, or to register to any of the classes, visit creativeballarat.com.au/ceramics.