Workshop Description:
Join Diana for a hands-on, six week journey into the art of surface design on clay. Each week,  explore a new technique to build layered, expressive, and visually rich surfaces.
Begin with one-color stencils, then dive into multi-color layering, and learn how to combine stencils with low-tech newsprint transfers. Explore expressive mark making through drawing, etching, and Mishima inlay. Whether you're new to surface design or looking to expand your skill set, this workshop will give you the tools and inspiration to transform your clay work.

Week 1: One-Color Stencils – Three Ways
In this first session, you'll learn how to turn your own artwork into beautiful, reusable
stencils. Diana will guide you through choosing materials, transferring and cutting your
designs, and using your stencils to create both positive and negative images. We’ll
explore ideal clay choices, and cover the best timing and techniques for successful
application.

Week 2: Multi-Color Stencils on Clay
In our second week, we’ll take your stencil work to the next level by layering multiple
colors to add depth and richness to your surfaces. Diana will demonstrate how to
enhance and build on your stencil imagery for more dynamic results.

Week 3: Newsprint Transfers
In our third week, we’ll dive into the art of newsprint transfer—a fun, low-tech method for
transferring hand-drawn or printed imagery onto clay using underglaze or slip and newsprint paper. You’ll learn how to create layered, expressive surfaces with a beautifully weathered, handmade feel. We’ll work on both flat and curved forms, and explore how this technique can be combined with stenciling for even richer surface design.

Week 4: Mishima Inlay
For our fourth week we’ll explore Mishima inlay technique where the surface of clay is
carved or incised and then filled with colored slip to create fine lines or patterns that lay flush with the clay surface. Diana will discuss the clay best body to use as well as share methods and tools to achieve crisp lines and clean surfaces.

Week 5: Drawing, Etching
Diana will share her approach to drawing on clay, including how to prepare your surfaces
and transfer your designs with ease. You’ll explore expressive mark making through two
techniques: Diana’s signature “etching in clay” method. We’ll discuss how to choose the
right tools for your style and how to use them to create unique, emotive line work that
brings your pieces to life.

Week 6: Combining Techniques
For our final week, Diana will demonstrate how to combine all the surface treatments we
learned together to create depth and interest to your clay surfaces. We’ll cover timing and
order for each surface application.