Experience the wonder of these two highly experimental ceramic processes. In the first session, you will learn to make functional and sculptural objects out of clay using various techniques. The following week, you will take part in the firing process of both open pit and horsehair.

In Horsehair firing, ceramic pots that have been bisque fired are put into an electric kiln and heated to a point that horse hair can be draped on the pot and instantly burns — leaving wonderful carbon marks on the pot.

Open Pit firing is a process that lets you enjoy working with clay outdoors and experimenting with different exciting finishes. An open above-ground "pit kiln" constructed of cement blocks is used as the firing chamber. The heat is contained, which allows the pit to reach temperatures high enough to create a variety of colors. Colors range from black and gray to blushes of pink and purple to red and peach.

Bring something to share for the potluck lunch on Sept 24.

Bill Shillalies received his MFA from Hunter College and teaches at Nassau Community College in Garden City, NY. He has worked in clay for over 25 years and shows his work nationally.