KWAK KYUNG TAE X TERRAPOTTER STUDIOS

Terrapotter Studios is delighted to host Korean potter Kwak Kyung Tae for a ‘5-Day Onggi Masterclass’ and ‘5-Day Wheel Throwing Masterclass’.

This series of masterclasses welcomes participants of all skill levels, from beginners to advanced potters. While the core curriculum is accessible to everyone, personalised 1:1 guidance is offered to cater to each individual’s level and aspirations throughout the class.

The course covers Korean pottery philosophy, history and regional differences, as well as traditional techniques and methods - some of which have been used by generations of Korean potters, and some of which focus on streamlining workflow.

The course is ideal for those looking to diversify their techniques, acquire new skills, and to work with larger volumes of clay to build strong vessels efficiently.

5-Day wheel throwing masterclass

Join us for an intensive 5-day masterclass where Teacher Kwak will share and teach traditional techniques of Korean wheel throwing in a focused and engaging format. Classes will be taught by Teacher Kwak with support from his two apprentices. Experience a unique and immersive opportunity designed for pottery enthusiasts.

This masterclass welcomes participants of all skill levels, from beginners to advanced potters. While the core curriculum is accessible to everyone, we provide personalised 1:1 guidance to cater to each individual’s level and aspirations throughout the class.

This course distills the essence of Korean throwing philosophy and deconstructs each step in the making process to provide a clear, direct, and repeatable framework for participants to follow. Participants are encouraged to ask questions and will be given the opportunity to see the master demonstrate a form they are interested in outside of our curriculum.

WHEEL: DETAILS

DATES

→ 10 March 2027 (Wednesday) - 14 March 2027 (Sunday)

WHAT IS INCLUDED

→ 6 hours of daily practice and tutelage with Teacher Kwak

→ All materials

→ Set of Korean wheel throwing tools to take home (valued at $75)

→ Lunch daily, Farewell dinner on last day

COSTS

→ $700/day ($3500 total)

→ Firing not provided, but available at extra cost

→ Payment plan options available

WHEEL: Topics

Topics covered:

  • History and context of the Korean approach to clay sourcing, storage and preparation

  • Spiral wedging (Gomak-milgi) and closing the spiral into a cylindrical form for more efficient centering

  • Fundamentals of centering a large mass of clay for throwing off the hump, with emphasis on relaxing the clay for better clay response

  • Exploration of sabal (teabowl) making, with a breakdown of steps to better understand each phase of the making process and finger placements

  • Korean style trimming demo using handmade tools and understanding the harmonic relationship between throwing and trimming in relation to the final form

  • Developing a more discerning “eye” for line and form by separating the structural and shaping phases of throwing

  • Demo of cylinders, plates, and teapots off the hump with advanced techniques

  • Large sabal (bowl), hangari (Jars), dalhangari (Moon Jar, 2 piece joining technique)

  • Buncheong decorating techniques: Dipping Buncheong and Brushing Buncheong

  • Discussion on developing a ‘practice’ on your own and progression outline for self-study.