In this class students will learn how to carve their own pottery stamps and sprig molds, then use them to add texture and relief designs to their clay projects.
A sprig mold is a small, flat mold, usually made from bisque-fired clay. It is used to create low-relief shapes called sprigs. These decorative elements are pressed from the mold and applied to pottery surfaces before firing, adding beautiful detail and dimension to your work. Pottery stamps are tools used to transfer designs or text onto clay surfaces for decoration or branding. They can be used to add maker’s marks, apply logos, or create decorative patterns that bring a unique touch to your pieces.
Brad Menninga (MFA CCA 2010) is the ceramics instructor at Clatsop Community College in Astoria. In addition to showing at the college, Menninga has created solo installations at the Mall of America in Minnesota and at the 2019 NCECA Conference (St. Paul, Minnesota). He has published technical and philosophical pieces with Studio Potter, Ceramic Arts Daily and Pottery Making Illustrated, and was the recipient of a 2020 Minnesota Artist Initiative Grant and 2020 McKnight Artist Fellowship for Ceramic Artists.