Ceramics: Nerkomi

Ceramics: Nerkomi

Adult Summer Class | Registration opens Monday, May 4, 2026 8:00 AM EDT

New offering!
6/23/2026-7/21/2026
10:00 AM-1:00 PM EDT on Tue
$205.00
$185.00
$25.00
$50.00

Ceramics: Nerkomi

Adult Summer Class | Registration opens Monday, May 4, 2026 8:00 AM EDT

In this class, participants will learn about Nerikomi, a traditional Japanese ceramic technique that involves layering different colored clay bodies to create patterned surfaces. The process allows for a wide range of surface effects, and the class will explore both repetitive geometric patterns, such as checkered designs, and organic agate-like marbling. Participants will work with both dark and light clay bodies to understand how contrast and composition influence the final surface.

What You Will Learn:
- Fundamentals of Nerikomi clay layering techniques
- Creating repetitive patterns such as checkered designs
- Developing agate and marbled clay structures
- Working with contrasting light and dark clay bodies
- Building patterned surfaces through cutting, stacking, and recombining clay

Firing Schedule: All work should be placed on the bisque firing shelf by Friday, July 10 and on the glaze firing shelf by Friday, July 17 to guarantee it will be fired by the last week of classes. Students can continue to drop off work for glaze firing until Friday, July 31. Finished work can be picked up during operational hours between terms, or the following term. We will store unclaimed work for one term only. Questions about the firing schedule can be directed to Scott Cooper, Senior Studio Technician, at scooper@fleisher.org.

All artwork and supplies must be removed from Fleisher’s Ceramics Studio shelving by Friday, July 31 regardless of Fall 2026 registration status.

Accessibility Note: This studio is accessible by elevator, but some auxiliary areas require stairs. For access needs or accommodations, contact adulteducation@fleisher.org.

  • • Clay is included in your registration - no outside clay is permitted.
    • A notepad and something to write with.
    • Basic pottery tool kit: cutting wire, sponge, wooden knife, needle tool, wooden rib, metal rib, large and small trimming loops.

Mackenzie Pikaart

Philadelphia-based artist Mackenzie Vaughan Pikaart’s work focuses on memories, the awareness of space, and creating visual platforms for statistics. She honed her craft while studying at The University of the Arts, receiving a BFA in Crafts concentrating in Ceramics. Since graduating Pikaart has become an accomplished collage, installation and sculpture artist. Some of Pikaart’s spectacular pieces have been shown throughout the greater Philadelphia area and in her home state of Connecticut. Now with Pikaart's home studio, at Black Hound Clay Studio, her focus is on creating dinnerware and wall pieces through the traditional Japanese technique of Nerikomi.
https://www.mvpstudio.me/