December 5-14, 2027
This intensive 10-day workshop focuses on form, surface and firing. It is entirely dedicated to the exploration of porcelain — its sensitivity, strength and unique capacity for refinement.
Through a combination of demonstrations and individual practice, participants will investigate how to create timeless ceramic forms that embody clarity, balance, and depth.
This is a rare opportunity to learn directly from John Colbeck, one of the most respected figures in contemporary ceramics.
At the core of this workshop is the idea of timelessness in porcelain: creating objects that move beyond trends through precision, proportion and a deep understanding of the material.
Porcelain demands attention, discipline, and care. Its unforgiving nature becomes a tool for refinement, guiding makers toward essential forms and subtle, controlled surfaces, while exploring subtle contamination processes that introduce variation into the material.
Participants will explore the space between functional vessels and sculptural objects, where simplicity becomes a powerful form of expression.
John Colbeck is a British ceramic artist, potter and vessel maker. Throughout his career, he has also taught extensively on ceramics degree courses in the United Kingdom and internationally, notably serving for many years as Head of Ceramics at the Bath Academy of Art.
In addition to teaching, Colbeck is the author of several influential books on pottery techniques, including “Pottery: the Technique of Throwing” (1969), “Pottery: Techniques of Decoration” (1983), and “Pottery Materials” (1988), which have been widely used by students and practitioners of ceramics.
His practice focuses on wheel-thrown forms made from stoneware and porcelain. These works are often unglazed on the exterior and carefully polished, emphasizing subtle variations in texture, tone, and material composition. His approach combines technical precision with a strong concern for visual clarity and form, reflecting his belief that ceramics should function as a form of visual communication.
Overall, John Colbeck is recognized both for his refined ceramic objects and for his significant role as an educator and writer, helping shape the understanding and practice of ceramics for generations of artists.
The workshop follows a rhythm of daily demonstrations combined with individual studio practice.
Guidance is both technical and conceptual, encouraging participants to develop their own visual language while working within the discipline of porcelain.
With a small group, there is a strong emphasis on individual feedback, allowing each participant to deepen and refine their personal approach.
Timeless Form: Vessel & Sculpture
Working with Porcelain
Greenware Refinement
Oxides & Subtle Surface
Glaze Inside / Raw Exterior
Greenware firing, bisque firing and wood firing
Participants will leave with:
A common understanding of studio practices is conducive to a creative and productive environment for exchange of skills and ideas.
Education is the primary focus of this studio and safety is a primary concern. Many safety issues are resolved by maintaining a clean studio. Every user is responsible to clean the space(s) they have used.
During the workshop, it is a rule that we support each other and cooperatively fit us into the group.
Tuition: from 3500€ (accomodation and transport are not included)
This includes:
Each participant is responsible for preparing one shared dinner during the workshop.
Payment
To reserve your spot, a deposit of 1500€ is required (it is non refundable).
The remaining balance must be paid in full no later than 10 days before the start of the workshop. Participants will be contacted 60 days prior with payment details.
