Ben offers a special opportunity this summer in the Catskills of New York. This pivotal workshop will provide a great experience of wood-firing as a group. A new train-style wood kiln has been added to the program offering more opportunities for creativity in clay. Participants will bring bisque ware to prepare for the firing. iVarious approaches to using flashing slips, glazing with materials to create texture, and firing techniques will be emphasized. Specific placement in the kiln, for various effects from the flame, smoke, and ash accumulation will be an important component of the experience. Philosophy, design, and specific ways of processing pottery will be shared. A hands-on workshop will take place while the wood kiln cools. Information on clays and materials to use for this workshop will be provided.

Sugar Maples Center For Creative Arts redefines the art and craft experience. In addition to traditional offerings in ceramics, painting, and fiber arts, we will now be hosting workshops in writing on art, craft and memoir, written alphabet design, fly tying, and perfumery. Located in Maplecrest, NY in the Catskills area. A beautiful background for the craft school.

Ben Owen III is an American potter born and raised in Seagrove, North Carolina. A sixth-generation ceramist learning from his family, Owen holds a BFA in Ceramics at East Carolina University. He was awarded a fellowship in Japan, and was a visiting artist in Jingdezhen, China. Ben continues to work in the family business, “Ben Owen Pottery,” established by his grandfather and father. Wood firing has continued to influence Ben's work by creating moments in time for color and surface effects from the process.

For more information about this special workshop, visit the Sugar Maples Center for Creative Arts website.