3 Things I Learned Teaching a Pottery Class and Why They Matter
Teaching a pottery class can be a great way to share your passion for ceramics with others. It's also an opportunity to learn from students and gain a deeper understanding of clay and the craft.
As a pottery teacher in Rochester, NY, I've had my fair share of challenges and triumphs. In this article, I'm excited to share the top 3 things I learned teaching a pottery class. For over 10 years Danielle and I have taught classes, and honed out skills. Along the way we’ve had many experiences, and enjoyed quite a few laughs that I hope this article will help illustrate in a way that inspires and entertains you!
Lesson 1: Patience is Key
Teaching pottery requires a lot of patience. It takes time for students to develop the skills they need to create beautiful pieces. As a teacher, it's important to provide guidance and support, while also allowing students to learn at their own pace. One of the biggest lessons I learned, and one of the biggest things I advocate when working with new ceramics teachers is the importance of taking a step back and letting students figure things out for themselves. And yes, that means letting them make mistakes, and failing along the way!
Did you make it, or did you buy it from Target?
Inevitably in any beginner wheel throwing course there will be one student who is frustrated their pot isn’t perfectly shaped and the surface completely smooth. The problem comes that this quest for perfection becomes a distraction, and prevents experimentation and ultimately growth.
Even though this person may be learning a new set of skills and using a piece of equipment they’ve never used before, they expected to make a piece similar to the mass produce pieces that are so commonly sold on store shelves.
When this happens I remind them that imperfection is part of the beauty of pottery, and they aren’t a big box retailer. The handmade imperfections are what makes each piece unique and special. And while it may not be easy to simply let go of the idea of perfection, encouragement and access to a new perspective is necessary to help a student relax and better enjoy the process. .
Lesson Learned: Provide history and encourage experimentation
One of the best ways to help students develop their skills is to provide some history and encourage experimentation. When we teach a student history, we help provide context, and understanding for how things should and more importantly can look.
And when when we encourage experimentation, we are encouraging them to explore their creativity and try new things. Experimentation will lead to increased confidence in their abilities and help them discover new ways of working with clay.
Lesson 2: Communication is Key
Teaching pottery is not just about instructing students on how to use the wheel or build a coil pot. It's also about effective communication. As a teacher, it's important to listen to your students, understand their needs, and provide clear and concise instructions.
Stand up and do it with me now.
I once had a student who was struggling to understand where his hands should be placed when pulling clay on the potters’ wheel. I verbally told them what to do, held my hands in position on the pot, and while they’d confirm they “got it” their hands would quickly end up in the wrong position, leading to frustration and failure.
The next piece he attempted, I stopped him, and we both stood up, away from the wheel. Together we held our hands up in the air before us, and step by step positioned our hands where they needed to be on our imaginary “air” pot.
This quick moment of taking a break, and stepping away from all of the distractions a classroom can create was just what he needed to focus and eventually master the hand positions he struggled with so. Sometimes communication means eliminating distractions, so what you are trying to communicating actually makes it through.
Lesson Learned: Adapt to your students' learning styles
Everyone learns differently. Some students may be visual learners, while others may learn best through hands-on experience. As a teacher, it's important to adapt your teaching style to meet the needs of your students. By doing so, you'll create a more effective and engaging learning environment.
Lesson 3: Enjoy the Process!
While pottery may be a serious craft, it's essential to have fun and enjoy the creative process. As a ceramics teacher, it's crucial to create a positive and enjoyable learning environment that inspires students to explore their creativity.
It’s not about making pottery, it’s about creating your own process
Recently I had a student who was attempting to make a rather large garden planter. She had a pot holder at home, specific measurements she hoped to fit, and a dream of making it herself. But, how could and would she make it? Accounting for shrinkage, the piece would be by far the largest she had ever made.
Together we began the process of throwing and combining coils to achieve the shape and size she hoped for. And while the piece would prove to be trouble, it became a great learning experience for both of us. With her learning that planters take much more clay and time than she originally imagined. And I learning that as a teacher I can teach how to make an object, or I can teach someone how to create their own process for creating their vision.
Lesson Learned: Embrace the Fun of Pottery
When teaching pottery, it's easy to get caught up in the technicalities and forget about the joy of the craft. However, it's crucial to remember that pottery is not just about making perfect pieces. It's about the joy of the process, the experimentation, and the creative expression. Encourage your students to have fun and explore their creativity. When everyone is relaxed and having fun, that's when the magic of pottery truly shines.
In Conclusion
Teaching pottery can be an incredibly rewarding experience, both for the teacher and the students. From developing patience and effective communication skills to embracing the joy of the creative process, there are many valuable lessons to be learned. By creating a positive and enjoyable learning environment, you can inspire your students to explore their creativity and develop their skills in this beautiful craft.
Interested in teaching pottery classes at Wheel & Slab Pottery Club in Rochester, NY? Contact us! We are always looking for motivated teachers of all skill levels to help with pottery classes, workshops and club nights.
Limited clay experience? Join our pottery class waitlist and we’ll notify you when a class is coming up.
FAQs
Q: Is it necessary to have prior experience in pottery to teach a class?
A: While prior experience in pottery can be helpful, it's not necessary. As long as you have a passion for the craft and a desire to share it with others, you can become a great pottery teacher.
Q: How do you handle difficult students?
A: It's important to approach difficult students with patience and empathy. Try to understand their needs and motivations, and provide gentle guidance and support. If necessary, you can also seek the advice of more experienced pottery teachers.
Q: What kind of pottery projects are suitable for beginners?
A: Simple projects such as pinch pots, coil pots, and slab-built projects are great for beginners. These projects allow students to develop basic skills and gain confidence in their abilities.
Q: How do you create a positive learning environment?
A: Creating a positive learning environment involves fostering a sense of community, encouraging open communication, and providing constructive feedback. It's also important to celebrate students' successes and make pottery classes a fun and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.
Q: How can pottery classes benefit students?
A: Pottery classes can provide numerous benefits, including stress relief, improved hand-eye coordination, and the opportunity to express creativity. Pottery classes can also promote mindfulness and relaxation, making them an excellent way to unwind after a long day.
Q: What are some tips for successful pottery classes?
A: Some tips for successful pottery classes include creating a positive learning environment, providing clear and concise instructions, adapting to students' learning styles, and encouraging experimentation and creativity. Additionally, it's essential to be patient, empathetic, and supportive of your students.
