Surface Techniques in Clay: A 2-Day Workshop with Lesley McInally
 
Saturday, October 19 from 9:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. and Sunday, October 20 from 9:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Cost: FUSION and Deep River Potters' Guild members $225 (plus tax), General public $250 (plus tax) 
Location: W.B. Lewis Library, Deep River, Ontario 
 
Potluck dinner on Saturday evening. All participants are welcome. 
 
Embark on a creative journey with renowned ceramic artist Lesley McInally in this two-day workshop focused on exploring surface techniques in clay. Whether you're a novice or an experienced potter, you'll discover methods to enhance your pottery through playful experimentation and artistic expression against the picturesque backdrop of the Ottawa River and the Laurentian mountains.
 
Throughout the workshop, Lesley will demonstrate various techniques using slips, underglazes, chalks, and monoprints to breathe life into your clay creations. From small test slabs to larger pieces, you'll have the opportunity to apply these techniques, igniting fresh ideas and inspiration that can translate into both functional and sculptural works of art.
 
In preparation for the workshop, the studio will provide pre-prepared leather hard tiles for experimentation, along with slips and underglazes. Students are requested to bring a medium-sized pot or sculpture (cone 6 clay body) in a leather-hard state to apply the learned techniques.
 
All materials will be provided or will be made in class. However, participants are encouraged to bring their favourite tools or brushes for personal use. Additionally, bringing a sketchbook and a camera for documenting the creative process is recommended. 
 
Billeting is available and hosted by Deep River guild members. Please reach out if you are interested. There are a variety of local motels in the area as well. 

 
About Lesley McInally
 
Lesley McInally is an accomplished artist with a passion for clay. Hailing from Scotland, Lesley earned her Bachelor of Design Honours Degree in Ceramics and Printmaking at Duncan of Jordanstone, Dundee University. Her artistic journey began managing Pitlochry Pottery in the highlands of Scotland followed by creating ceramic props for the film industry and decorative ceramics for galleries throughout the UK.
 
In 2004, Lesley embarked on a new chapter by immigrating to Canada, where she established her studio practice in Cookstown, Ontario. Here, she delved deeper into her craft, honing her skills in unique stretched slab forms, paper clay techniques, hand building and captivating surface treatments. Leveraging her knowledge in printmaking, she infused her ideas onto clay creating highly tactile surfaces, using slips and underglazes.
 
Throughout her career, Lesley has been eager to share her artistic knowledge with others. She has taught her techniques at various ceramic educational institutions, leaving a lasting impact on aspiring artists. She finally embraced the digital world, taking her expertise to global audiences with online workshops.
 
Lesley’s artistry has been duly recognized as she has been the recipient of numerous prestigious awards and grants and continues to exhibit nationally and internationally.
 
For more information about Lesley McInally, please visit www.lesleymcinally.com