Form & Fire is an artist-led pottery studio located in the historical neighbourhood of Redland, Bristol
The studio acts as a place for the local community to come and connect with new experiences and explore the exciting possibilities of clay.
Workshops
Workshops are a great way to come and give pottery a go in short one-off sessions.
We specialise in intimate beginners taster workshops, designed for two people. Bring your partner, date, BFF or mum and come and give pottery a go!
The different types of pottery
Wheel throwing
The technique of shaping wet clay using your hands on a motorised spinning wheel into forms. A fast and fun way to make round shapes.
Painting
You can paint pottery using various materials, usually onto bisqueware, which means it has been fired in the kiln once. Often found in cafes.
Hand building
Shaping wet clay with your hands and simple tools using various techniques such as coiling or pinching. This allows you to create asymmetrical and free flowing forms.
Glazing
The final stage of the process where by you coat your pieces with a layer of minerals which are then fired to create a smooth glass-like surface. This ensures pieces are waterproof, food safe and more durable.
Slip casting
Using plaster molds and liquid clay to create castings of a shape dictated by the mold you are using. A great way to create perfect repeat items consistently.
Meet your tutor
Ruth Aislabie is a ceramic artist and tutor who has been working in the industry for over 5 years.
She runs the popular ceramics brand Fubsies, where she makes playful and whimsical character based pieces, designed to brighten your day with their bright colours and smiling faces.
Ruth uses a wide range of ceramic techniques in her own work including wheel throwing, hand building details and painting surface decoration.
You can take a look at her work here: www.fubsies.co.uk
