Join us for an intensive 2-day masterclass where Teacher Kwak will share and teach the traditional techniques of Korean wheel throwing in a focused and engaging format. Classes will be taught by Teacher Kwak with his two apprentices, providing an excellent teacher to student ratio. Experience a unique and immersive opportunity designed for pottery enthusiasts.

An Exclusive Masterclass Led by Teacher Kwak

This masterclass welcomes participants of all skill levels, from beginners to advanced potters. While the core curriculum is accessible to everyone, we provide personalized 1:1 guidance to cater to each individual’s level and aspirations throughout the class.

This course distills the essence of Korean throwing philosophy and deconstructs each step in the making process to provide a clear, direct, and repeatable framework for participants to follow. Participants are encouraged to ask questions and will be given the opportunity to see the master demonstrate a form they are interested in outside of our curriculum.

Topics covered:

• History and context of the Korean approach to clay sourcing, storage and preparation
• Spiral wedging (Gomak-milgi) and closing the spiral into a cylindrical form for more efficient centering
• Fundamentals of centering a large mass of clay for throwing off the hump, with emphasis on relaxing the clay for better clay response
• Exploration of sabal (teabowl) making, with a breakdown of steps to better understand each phase of the making process and finger placements
• Korean style trimming demo using handmade tools and understanding the harmonic relationship between throwing and trimming in relation to the final form
• Developing a more discerning “eye” for line and form by separating the structural and shaping phases of throwing
• Demo of cylinders, plates, and teapots off the hump with advanced techniques
• Large sabal (bowl), hangari (Jars), dalhangari (Moon Jar, 2 piece joining technique)
• Buncheong decorating techniques: Dipping Buncheong and Brushing Buncheong
• Discussion on developing a ‘practice’ on your own and progression outline for self-study.

Daily Schedule: 
10:00am-1:00pm
Lunch Break
2:30pm-5:30PM

Masterclass Includes:

• High-quality stoneware clay
• A comprehensive tool set valued at $300 for each student, including 4 wooden tools, 2 metal ribs, and 1 shammy tool
• Translation by Teacher Kwak’s apprentice
• Basic communal tools (feel free to bring your own)
• Snacks, coffee, and tea available throughout the day

Please Note: Firing service is not included; if you wish to fire your pieces an additional fee will apply based on the size of the items.

This class takes place at Groundworks East (3063 E. Sterling Cir.)

Ages: 16+