SPECIAL WORKSHOP* Plate Throwing Masterclass w/ Kat Pino (ONE-TIME WORKSHOP) (EXPERIENCE REQUIRED)

WHEEL THROWING EXPERIENCE REQUIRED – Students must confidently centre clay on the wheel and throw a 4" cylinder. This workshop is for those with intermediate-level skills; we won’t be spending time on the basics of wheel throwing.

Workshop Duration: One Time Workshop (2.5 hours in length)

Monday, November 3rd from 5:30PM - 8:30PM

Monday, November 17th from 5:30PM - 8:30PM

Workshop Description:

It’s no secret that plates (or any flatware) are one of the most difficult shapes to make on the potter’s wheel. We’ve been asked many times in the past year about a plate-throwing workshop.  While seemingly simple in their form and function, plates present many complex technical considerations. Flattening out a large amount of clay requires different throwing techniques and impeccable body awareness. We are so excited and privileged to welcome Kat Pino, who has worked tirelessly to master these techniques. In this masterclass, Kat will demonstrate all her advanced techniques and secret tips so you can learn everything about plates. 

This workshop covers what makes a good plate, the design of plates, what restaurants look for in plates, and what the biggest pitfalls and challenges are in making plates (and how to overcome them). You’ll get to learn about the infamous S-crack, compression, the importance of slow-drying, and using the centrifugal force of the wheel to your advantage. Kat will demo the throwing and trimming of contemporary-style plates and let you in on some advanced techniques and secret tips. 

NOTE: IF STUDENTS WOULD LIKE TO KEEP THE PIECES THEY THROW DURING THIS WORKSHOP, IT IS ADVISED TO EITHER BRING BATS FOR THE WHEEL OR PURCHASE AT THE SHOP BEFORE THE WORKSHOP. BATS WILL NOT BE PROVIDED AS PART OF THE WORKSHOP, PLATES ARE  DIFFICULT TO REMOVE FROM THE WHEEL HEAD AFTER THROWING, SO BATS WILL BE NEEDED IF YOU INTEND TO KEEP YOUR PIECES

About the Instructor: 

Kat Pino is a talented ceramicist from The Netherlands, living in Vancouver, BC since 2016. “What draws me to ceramics is its ability to form connections. I believe that every object in a home interacts and communicates with us, it produces a feeling of some sort”. Kat’s work has a focus on functionality and simplicity. "Aesthetically, I’m inspired by the simple and clean lines, shapes, and materials that we see in modern design, architecture, industrial design and interiors. How a piece of ceramics can contribute to someone’s experience in a home or restaurant lies at the heart of my designs. It’s incredibly inspiring to work with chefs and interior designers and see how my work interacts with their creations and together elevate the overall experience.”

Kat has worked with several locally renowned chefs and restaurateurs create bespoke, functional ceramic wares, oftentimes designing pieces for a specific dish in need of a unique plating style. Some of her recent projects include working with Chef Gus Stieffenhofer-Brandson, designing and creating the chef's tasting menu dishes for Michelin Star restaurant “Published on Main.” The dinnerware for Michelin Guide recommended restaurant “The Acorn” and chef Devon Latte. The chef’s tasting menu dishes for Michelin Guide recommended restaurant “Maenam” and chef Angus An, and other local fine dining establishments.

Workshop Highlights:

This workshop is contained to one session, which will cover a variety of topics and techniques:

• What makes a good plate?
• Walking through the design of a plate and what restaurants look for in plates.
• The biggest pitfalls and challenges are in making plates (and how to overcome them).
• You will learn about the infamous S-crack, compression, the importance of slow-drying, and using the centrifugal force of the wheel to their advantage.
• Kat will demo the throwing of contemporary-style plates and let you in on some advanced techniques and secret tips. Kat will also demonstrate best trimming practices on a pre-thrown leather hard plate.
• During this workshop, you get to throw your own plates with guidance from Kat and gain more confidence to begin throwing plates in your own ceramic practice.

Post Workshop: Trimming, Firing, Glazing

• Trimming & Glazing will not be a part of the workshop; Kat will discuss her trimming techniques, and share best practices etc. to prepare you to trim your pieces. You will be provided with the option of additional self-guided Open Studio time at no cost so you can come back to trim your thrown plates and glaze them after firing. Special instructions to book your trimming and glazing times will be provided following the workshop.

Workshop Details:

Location: The Clay Warehouse - #10-1770 McLean Ave. Port Coquitlam, BC, V4C 4 K8

Dates/Times: We offer three separate workshop dates. This is a one-time workshop covering all skills required. Instructions to make a free follow-up Open Studio reservation are provided after the workshop. Remember to arrive early so the workshop time can be used most efficiently.

Monday, November 3rd from 5:30PM - 8:30PM

Monday, November 17th from 5:30PM - 8:30PM

Materials: All necessary materials are provided, including clay, tools, and firing services, as well as studio glazes if you choose to return to finish your pieces. Bats are not included.

Who Should Attend/Skill Prerequisites: This workshop is open to experienced potters looking to refine their techniques. Please note that this masterclass is not suited for beginners. Intermediate throwing experience is required. You are expected to have completed The CW102 workshops or have equivalent experience elsewhere. You must feel comfortable centering and throwing consistent cylinders without assistance. We will be throwing 4+ lbs of clay during this workshop.

Ensure you can commit to all class dates:

We plan our class dates far in advance to provide adequate notice for you to plan your life around our courses. We ask that future students registering for this class commit to all class dates. No make up sessions are given for special workshops.

Cancellation Policy:

Cancellations are accepted up to 7 days before the first workshop date, and all cancellations are subject to a 15% administration fee. Cancellations made 6 days or less before the workshop will not be refunded. Once a workshop has begun, refunds will not be processed. We are a small business and must fill all spots in each class to pay our teachers and supply all materials and equipment. 

Students attending the workshop must be at least 18 years old:

Our studio is a mature space designed for adults looking to unwind from their daily lives.