Otago Polytechnic Distance Learning Course in association with Wellington Potters Association, Inc
 If you’re fired up for a career in ceramics, the Otago Polytechnic’s Diploma in Ceramic Arts (Level 6) is absolutely the best way to get there. This two-year full time programme is New Zealand’s only specialised programme in ceramic arts at tertiary level but if you are unable to be a full time student at Otago Polytechnic in Dunedin you can also study for the Diploma part time here in Wellington. The part time course takes four years.
What will you study?
The aim of this programme is to have you create forms and imagery that combine both practical ability and intellectual energy. This means a combination of project work, technical training and a good grounding in theory. Students study the theoretical aspects of ceramics via distance tuition from Otago Polytechnic. Classes in ceramic studio practice will be tutored by experienced ceramics professionals at Wellington Potters Centre in Thorndon.
Subjects
- Drawing and design
- Theory and history of art
- Glaze technology
These subjects are taken on-line by Dunedin tutors Neil Grant (Drawing) and Dr Peter Stupples (Art History) and Lawrence Ewing (glaze technology). Students are expected to carry out these distance courses continuously through the academic year.
 Students work in their own studios but gather at Wellington Potters’ Centre once a week for a full day to work under supervision and to receive tutoring.
Each calendar year consists of three 10 week modules (making six modules per diploma year).
Modules: 2 x wheel-throwing, 3 x hand-building and 1 x free choice.
You will learn to fire electric and gas kilns and you will have the unique possibility to be involved in the firing of WPA’s new anagama kiln.
Wellington Tutors:
Richard Stratton – Slab and surface decoration, Gloria Young Majolica, Kate Pates – throwing, and many more.
An example of Module composition:
| Week 1 |
study of works using coil/pinch/slab techniques by other artists at exhibitions, in books, from slide presentations… |
| Weeks 2 - 4 |
Technical demonstrations and exercises |
| Weeks 5 - 9 |
Extension exercises |
| Week 10 |
Assessment |
Assessment
Evaluation is carried out at the end of every module and is based on:
Students are expected to keep a visual diary which shows working methods. This can include sketches, written ideas, glaze tests and results, photos, photocopies, clippings, collage.
In the final week of each module students will present their work to the tutor. Grading will be based on the quality of the working process.
Presence of body and mind!
What are the entry requirements?
You’ll need to have completed four years’ secondary education with a demonstrable interest in art to apply for this programme. Mature students will be accepted on the basis of the strength of their application. Entry is by interview, or telephone interview, and portfolio. Application forms, which contain detailed information, may be obtained from Wellington Potters Association or by contacting the Otago Polytechnic School of Art. (Details are given below).
After this what further studies can you do?
At the completion of the Level 6 Diploma, students may apply to transfer into the Bachelor of Fine Arts programme, majoring in Ceramics. From there you can go on to the Master of Fine Arts programme or Graduate Diploma in Fine Arts.
What are the job opportunities?
There is a recognised shortage of trained ceramists in New Zealand. Ceramics is a specialised field enjoying ongoing demand from a market that appreciates quality pottery and ceramic art. You could be a potter or ceramist in your own studio, or as part of a larger commercial operation. Or you could teach ceramics.
What will it cost me?
To commence the course in 2006 the fees for the year are as approximately follows and although changes may occur they are not anticipated. You may qualify for a student loan for this course.
| Studio Practice, full time |
$3479.90 |
Studio Practice, part time |
$1739.95 |
Glaze |
$432.65 |
Drawing |
$522.00 |
Art History and Theory |
$648.68 |
CONTACT DETAILS
Otago Polytechnic:
Freephone 0800 762 786; or
email: julie@tekotago.ac.nz.
Otago Polytechnic’s website is: www.otagopolytechnic.ac.nz
Wellington Potters Association:
DCA Supervisor - Cate Pates clpates@hotmail.com T: 04 478 4433 M: 021 143 7705
Rooms – 4733680
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