About
Please note that the final work will be available for collection on Monday following the course.
Porcelain is a unique medium: the plasticity of its particles lends itself to fine detail, its whiteness, uncontaminated by other earth oxides, reflects light and gives a particular luminosity to glazes, and its high-vitrification point makes it incredibly durable and translucent when illuminated.
During this five-day workshop, the participants will be introduced to porcelain’s enchanting history: used in China as early as 7th century A.D., attempts to recreate true porcelain in Europe seemed like an act of alchemy and magic. Taking it out of its utilitarian and industrial context, we will engage in the drawing and making process using plaster moulds to impress design details onto the clay surface. We will consider a range of making techniques, there will be an opportunity to experiment with matte and transparent glazes, and we will also consider the effects of kiln firing processes.
By the end of the course, each participant will have completed a small panel or a series of repeating design elements, where the designs are incised or in relief on the surface of porcelain, and will be equipped with skills for further experimentation and exploration into the beauty and functionality of this medium.
Participants are encouraged to bring their own circular or square design composed of geometric and/or biomorphic motifs or may choose from a range of designs supplied by the tutor.
Key Information
Who is this course for?
All levels of ability and experience are welcome. You must be aged 18 or over to participate in our programmes.
What days do I attend?
Monday – Friday, 15 – 19 September 2025, 10:00 – 16:30
How many students can attend?
8 people
Where will this course take place?
This course will take place at our studios at The King’s Foundation School of Traditional Arts,
19-22 Charlotte Road, London EC2A 3SG.
What should I bring to class?
All materials are provided on this course.
Wear comfortable clothing that you do not mind getting slightly messy. Avoid wearing baggy clothing (especially sleeves), loose jewellery, high heels or open-toed shoes.
FAQs
Do you offer concessions?
Yes, we offer concessions for full-time students and Seniors/60+.
Concessions cannot be applied in retrospect. To receive a concession, please apply via our online form. We will then send you a discount code to use when booking your space.
Terms & Conditions
The School reserves the right to discontinue or suspend a Course up to fourteen (14) calendar days before the advertised start date of the Course. This course requires a minimum number of enrollments to run.
The School may take and use images of you and/or your work for course advertisement and social media purposes.
Our normal terms and conditions apply.
Tutor Biography
Katya Nosyreva, PhD, is a ceramicist, visual artist, and geometer. Living with her family on Dartmoor, UK, she works with porcelain clay and the visual and symbolic language of sacred geometry. Katya’s PhD research (School of Traditional Arts, 2013) combined her studio practice with geometry. She designed and made an architectural space for a Sufi centre in Delhi, India. This work explored the practice of traditional craft within contemporary Sufism. During the course of her PhD research, Katya worked with historical manuals and architectural scrolls on practical geometry. These treasures from the medieval Islamic guild-tradition document practical geometric methods and reveal much about historic approaches. In working with these manuals, Dr Nosyreva finds inspiration for the contemporary geometer.
