During this course, participants will learn the general techniques of ceramic casting, with a particular focus on rotational forms, while also covering the casting of small objects. They will learn how to use a mold from start to finish, from preparing the slip for pouring to the precise finishing of the piece once it is removed from the mold.

By the end of the course, participants will be able to:

• Analyze an object and identify its draft angles and undercuts
• Design and build a one-piece mold for a form of revolution
• Design and build a three-part mold for a rotationally symmetric shape
• Create a mold for a small object (figurine, fruit, doorknob, etc.)
• Use a casting mold: from preparing the clay to decorating techniques and finishing the piece

Mastered in China during the Tang and Song dynasties, porcelain reached a remarkable degree of perfection between the 9th and 12th centuries. Introduced to Europe via major trade routes, notably through Venice, it inspired fascination and desire for centuries, before the first hard-paste porcelain factories appeared in Meissen, Germany, at the beginning of the 18th century. In France, the discovery of kaolin in the Limousin region then fostered the rise of Limoges porcelain, which established itself as a major production center in the 19th century.

Over the course of five days, participants will learn how to reproduce a rotationally symmetrical shape in ceramic, as well as a small object made of any material, using plaster molds. They will discover how to analyze an object, prepare it, and cast it, covering the essential concepts of draft angles and undercuts to determine the most suitable method and achieve optimal results.

Three types of molds will be explored: the simple single-part mold, the multi-part mold for complex shapes, and the small-object mold. By the end of the workshop, each participant will be able to choose the most suitable technique for creating their own molds.
The use of plaster molds will be covered comprehensively, from preparing the casting slip to practical application. Various decoration techniques specific to casting will be presented through concrete examples. The training will emphasize the use of porcelain, a demanding material that yields exceptional results. Participants will learn how to produce high-quality pieces through in-depth work on finishing.

Opportunities for discussion will also be provided, allowing everyone to present their projects, receive personalized advice, and benefit from the group’s collective experience. Participants are encouraged to bring three small objects of their choice (light bulb, doorknob, fruit, figurine, etc.) to be studied and cast during the workshop, as well as an object they would like to create after the course to receive specific guidance.

Schedule

Day 1

Introduction and first casting sessions

Morning

• Welcome and course overview
• Introduction to the principles of single-part molds
• Preparing your own casting model: tips and techniques

Afternoon

• Hands-on practice: preparing and casting a simple model (cup provided)

Day 2

Moving on to more complex designs

Morning

• Finishing the single-part mold
• Exploring the principles of multi-part molds
• Preparing a more complex model (provided by the workshop)

Afternoon

• Casting the first part

Day 3

The secrets of the three-part mold

Morning

• Production of the second and third parts
• Finalizing the three-part mold

Afternoon

• Introduction to casting small objects
• Customized study: analyzing and casting objects brought by participants
• Practical application: casting 1 to 3 small objects depending on their complexity

Day 4

Casting and the magic of finishing touches

Morning

• Presentation of casting techniques and 4 innovative decoration methods
• Preparation of slip and colored clays

Afternoon

• Learning different casting techniques
• Exploring casting and 4 decoration methods

Day 5

Create, refine, and share

Morning

• In-depth study of casting and decorating techniques
• Finishing and refining the pieces

Afternoon

• Sharing and personalized advice: each participant receives concrete feedback on their projects to leave with creative and professional ideas
• Tidying up the workshop

Juliette Vivien

Juliette Vivien, who comes from a long line of artists and artisans, discovered ceramics as a child thanks to her grandfather, whose tools she still uses today as symbols of a precious legacy. After studying at the ESAA Duperré in Paris, where she was introduced to the art of miniatures, she benefited from the mentorship of sculptor Fanny Ferré and the influence of Frédéric Mulatier, a ceramicist and basket weaver, who guided her toward creating monumental pieces partially fired in a wood-fired kiln.

In 2018, she founded her micro-enterprise, specializing in high-end creations. After developing a collection of utilitarian porcelain pieces, characterized by their delicacy and miniature scale, she now devotes herself to creating exceptional ornamental and utilitarian pieces for a discerning clientele of interior designers, galleries, and luxury brands.

• Classroom, multipurpose room, workshops with professional equipment
• Supply of materials
• Individual and collaborative work
• Workshop-based work
• Active participation and hands-on experimentation by participants are encouraged

• Group and personalized progress tracking, regular updates
• Self-assessment of technical skills
• Group presentation
• Attendance sheet by half-day
• Certificate of completion issued by Campus MaNa