“Cristina Cordova's month long intensive produced by The Centre for the Study of Figurative Ceramics is an absolute game-changer. It is truly like doing a university degree, with only the information you need to guide you as a figurative ceramist. The wealth of information from artists - all internationally recognized and at the top of their fields - cannot be replicated. The benefit of being able to ask questions, do virtual studio tours, and have back up resources and learning through hands-on projects makes this the best course I've done. Hands down. Cristina is a gifted educator, adept with technology and resources, and she creates a safe space in which to learn.”

— Fiona R.

“This wonderful and intense program provided an incentive to create a daily studio practice working with developing ideas, creating solid forms and applying color to all stages of clay from leather-hard through to the glaze stage. The in-person zoom format allowed access to my studio while learning from creative thinkers and makers. Having time between classes allowed time for percolation of the presented information as to how it might integrate into my work. Individual meetings with professionals helped guide me to and through my goal of creating meaningful work. The personalities of the instructors made learning the information so much more fun. Thank you for everything.”

- Betsy B.

“I'm so happy I signed up for this program. While I wasn't able to make many of the live zoom presentations, I still watched the recorded videos and got so much out of them. I'm filled with ideas and new ways of doing my work, and am so excited about all of the surface design techniques I was exposed to and can't wait to implement. This program helped get me out of my comfort zone and has encouraged me to keep going, keep playing and experimenting and keep my mind open to all the possibilities. Thank you!”

- Keri H.

“This course has been fantastic! All the information and techniques that has been offered, through the studio solid sculpture workshop, and all the visits and videos has been amazing, and I feel going forward, for my own studio practice, it will change the way I work and plan out the pieces, as well as meaning, and surfaces.”

- Mary P.

“Oh my goodness, it has accelerated my practice beyond words, not just on a sculpting level but also a personal level, the growth has been phenomenal, beyond words, hopefully you will see it in my work going forward. Thank you “

-Penny Y.

“Seeing so many ways to approach figurative work from such a great variety of top artists provided me with a vast amount of possibilities moving forward with my own figurative work. I really enjoyed the ideation process and look forward to implementing aspects of that for tuning into my voice.“

-Dawna M.

“This program has been an incredible gift of knowledge and inspiration shared by a group of very talented teachers and artists. It is a privilege to be part of this program, this group…”

-Leslie K.

“The program has been a game changer for me, opening a door of what a studio practice can be, what my studio practice can be… The curriculum hit every aspect in the making, from ideation, and different ways of approaching and constructing the figure, finishing, firing and repairing sculptures. and even access to coaching and the unique view from a successful gallerist on creating a body of work and what it takes to make it marketable. In addition, having a glimpse into each artist's creative world and their process of making during the studio visits was vey inspirational and expansive; I loved the class setting and instead of being alone in my studio, being inspired by the work of my peers. “ -Sandra B

“I learned so many new techniques from surface techniques, to different armatures and how to build off of the wall. It has definitely opened up my world into building in different ways. I have also gotten more practice and tips for building figures which has been tremendously useful. In addition, meeting with the art coach and with Leslie Ferrin was super informative on how to push my practice further.”

-Heather H.

“I find the lectures very informative. It has been great to learn from successful sculptors and see how they have developed their unique methods and styles. This course has broadened my understanding of the making of ceramic sculptures. I can't wait to put what I've learned into practice.”

-Roulan M.

“This program provided the answer to so many questions I have had for years. It really was a dream course. Technical questions I have had as well as possibilities and inspiration were provided in more ways than I could have ever hoped. I am beyond grateful for the generosity that Cristina and her guest instructors provided. Wow. I feel so lucky and blessed. Seriously.”

-Karen M.

“ The range of shared information was phenomenal and, as someone who did not come from a formal education in art, it worked very well for me to have an opportunity to hear from other sculptors about their work, many of whom I have followed previously. Hearing from these folks impacted my practice in infinite ways as I now have a range of artists, methods and thoughts to draw from…“

-Pamela R.

“This phenomenal program has energized my mind, hands, and heart. I am in the midst of a creative explosion, so many ideas for what I want my work to say and so many new techniques to experiment with.”

-Annie G.

“There was SO MUCH content it is absolutely jam-packed and such a value for the price paid...especially with the ability to download and access information indefinitely. The inclusion of other artists added so much depth to every aspect from construction and surfacing techniques to professional practices. The entire package is an absolute gem that will take additional time to digest, but will undoubtedly inform the practice of every participant here”

“Really excellent and varied. I am starting out as a maker but have a knowledge of ceramics from a design point of view. The high standard really helped me consider the work I am hoping to do from both a conceptual and technical point of view.”

“The inclusion of so many high profile successful artists was phenomenal. The way they were able to host the meeting for the lectures and demonstrations was smooth and really transported me to their studios. I also really was pleased there were follow-through assignments WITH DEADLINES to push me to dive into the techniques instead of ruminating on them and "planning" to revisit later.”

“Watching Cristina and the other demonstrators in real time and the length of the presentations . This is really important as it emphasises the slowness, care and attention needed. Its something impossible to get from books or some lower level short video classes. It was almost as good as being in the room with them. Really important.”

“The content and knowledge is at a wonderfully high level. Ive found it’s hard to get advanced level of skills and information outside of academia. I am very excited that I have found your courses as a way for me to grow as an artist and have it be at an advanced level that I feel quite challenged and is a big reach. It’s such an honor to be taught by artists whom I followed and studied for years welcomed into their studio as they teach their methods. And having the guest lectures Rachel and Kathryn make it this wholistic experience that not only are we learning techniques and skills, but we’re learning about how to submit our work to galleries and the creative coaching to guide us and prepare us for that endeavor.”

“Although relatively new to working in 3D I understand the basics. I definitely wanted to learn from people who are at the top of their game which is such a privilege and the opportunity has been wonderful. As I am stuck in the middle of nowhere in the UK it could only be bettered by attending classes in person which is not an option.”

“I WAS BLOWN AWAY. I have an entire notebook filled with aha! moments from the sessions. Your curation of experts, their thoughtful storytellilng and process demonstrations, and the opportunity to extend the learning through our projects was really valuable.“

“I am inspired to continue to deepen and focus my practice. This course highlighted so many areas and opportunities for me to learn and grow, and gave me a new community of artist friends, who I hope to continue to grow alongside.”

“Ps just want to say how much I’ve enjoyed this, and all the other courses. I will definitely be taking more in the future. As many as I can. lol. Thank you so much for how thoughtful and organized the courses are and for sharing your knowledge and experience with us all.”

“Exploring a range of artist’s approaches and techniques was really valuable. This is so important as newer artists. Finding one specific material, one specific method of working, one specific concept can open up a whole world that solidifies what works for us. Having exposure to so many different artists and their techniques while the works are all intertwined via clay and the figure, fed my own ideas and methods immensely. I’ve come away from this course with a solid direction and ideas of where to take my next series.”