Flower Bricks with Joan Bruneau + Artist Talk
Presented in collaboration with Parkdale Pottery
Dates: November 6, 7 and 8, 2026
Public Artist Talk: Friday, November 6, 7-8:30 PM
Time: 10 AM - 5 PM
Format: Three day hands-on wheel throwing & handbuilding workshop
Location: Parkdale Pottery Dupont, 300 Campbell Ave., Toronto, ONParticipants: 18
Build on your wheel-throwing and handbuilding skills in this focused three-day workshop exploring flower brick forms and lidded vases. Working with thrown and altered cylindrical shapes, participants will learn how to design, throw, and assemble flower bricks using drop-in lids, galleries, and flanges, with an emphasis on proportion, function, and experimentation.
This workshop is process-driven rather than product-focused. You’ll develop multiple test forms, explore oval and square bodies, and refine lid systems and feet through a series of demonstrations, lectures, and hands-on making. Pieces will be bisque fired and available for pickup after the workshop. Included in this work shop is admission to Joan's artist talk on Friday evening.
Skill Level
Intermediate to Advanced wheel throwing experience required.
What You’ll Learn
• Throwing bottomless cylinders with galleries for drop-in lids
• Measuring for precise lid fit using calipers at the wet stage
• Altering thrown forms into oval and square bodies
• Designing and assembling slab bottoms and foot rings
• Throwing and fitting flanges and lids
• Understanding composition and function in flower bricks and lidded forms
Materials & Equipment
Clay: Cone 6 Mid Red Throwing Clay, no grog
Each participant will have access to a wheel, work table, banding wheel or lazy susan, and 6 to 8 batts.
Recommended Tools
Throwing tools, calipers, ruler, apron, towel, sharp fettling knife, X-Acto knife, sketchpad and pen.
Workshop Structure
Day 1 focuses on galleries, drop-in lids, and beginning flower brick bodies. Artist Talk from 7-8:30 PM
Day 2 covers altering forms, assembling bodies, feet, flanges, and lid systems.
Day 3 is dedicated to building and assembling lids.
This is an excellent opportunity for experienced throwers looking to deepen their understanding of complex forms, precision fitting, and thoughtful ceramic design.
Fees for programs cannot be refunded. If you need help or accommodations, please get in touch so we can work together to support you.