Fundamentals of Wheel Throwing - Teen Summer Camp in NEWTOWN

This is a two weeklong summer camp for teens ages 15-18 years old! Your teen will learn to throw various shapes on the wheel and then use an array of techniques to glaze and decorate their work! They will end up with functional pottery to use and enjoy!
Camp Info:

• Dates: July 13th-16th and July 20th-23rd (camp is two weeks long, Monday through Thursday both weeks)
• Time: 11AM - 3PM (there will be a 30-minute lunch break at 12:30pm every day, students are responsible for bringing their own food and drinks with them each day)
• Cost: $500 (total for both weeks of camp)

Daily Breakdown: 

• Day 1 (July 13th): master wedging, weighing clay, centering and cleaning/caring for equipment (all day on the wheel)
• Day 2 (July 14th): master a cylinder, goal of being able to make a mug at the end of the day (all day on the wheel)
• Day 3 (July 15th): Pick your poison, come in with ideas and receive 1:1 instruction (all day on the wheel)
• Day 4 (July 16th): Trimming and Attaching Extravaganza (trimming on the wheel and adding attachments by hand)
• Day 5 (July 20th): Leather hard decorating: focus on Sgraffito and Resist Techniques
• Day 6 (July 21st): Leather hard decorating: focus on Newspaper transfer technique
• Day 7 (July 22nd): Glaze Intensive: Learn bubble glaze, writer bottle, tape resist, glaze pour and glaze chip decorating techniques and decorate your work using your favorite methods
• Day 8 (July 23rd): Finishing Day: last day to finish glazing everything, make plaque for the Art Show and select pieces to be included in the Show

Included in this Camp:

• 25lbs of clay per person (enough to make 12-15 pieces) 
• All the glaze they need to finish their work 
• All kiln firings for their work
• Individualized instruction to work with each student's skill level and personal goals

Camp Instructor:
Meet Olivia, a certified PreK-12 educator and veteran Art Department Studios instructor who has been throwing since 2022. Olivia specializes in "scaffolded success," using professional teaching best practices to help students master everything from basic cylinders to advanced 8lb+ forms. This July, Olivia is bringing that expertise to our 15-18 age group. This two-week program is designed to give high schoolers a comprehensive foundation in everything from initial centering to final glazing, all within a supportive and structured environment. It’s the perfect summer intensive for any high schooler looking to dive deep into a new craft with a teacher who truly understands how students learn. 

Policies and Expectations

• Campers are expected to be kind and respectful
• Disruptive behavior may result in dismissal without refund
• Please inform us of any allergies or special needs in advance

Cancellation Policy - No exceptions (Emergencies are case by case)

• 30+ days before: Full refund minus $40 fee
• 14–30 days before: 50% store credit
• Less than 14 days: No refund
• Low enrollment: Full refund

Don’t Forget! All campers are invited to join our “Welcome to Camp Art Dept.” Gallery Show — a fun celebration of their summer creations!
 
Those with long hair please braid it or have in a ponytail, refrain from wearing rings/bracelets/long necklaces, have on CLOSED toe shoes, and wear clothing you are comfortable getting clay on. It is also recommended to trim your fingernails before your class, as long nails can make things more challenging. The Pottery Wheel is messy and thankfully clay will wash out, but please come prepared!  

Thank you for choosing Art Dept. Studios!