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Thomas McIntyre

Let’s Go Big in Clay: Large-Scale Handbuilding

February 17 - March 5, 2026
Open to All Skill Levels
Sculpture, Clay

Overview

Explore the exciting challenge of working in large scale in this hands-on ceramics workshop. You will learn key handbuilding techniques, including coil and slab building, to construct either a small stool or a side table. The class will emphasize efficient construction methods to maximize the strength of your piece while keeping its weight manageable. You’ll also learn how to properly manage the drying process of a large-scale ceramic piece from its initial construction to a bone-dry state ready for bisque firing. The workshop will cover a variety of surface decoration techniques, with multiple underglaze colors available and lessons on creating patterns like grids or stripes by taping off areas. A clear low-fire glaze will be applied over the underglaze for a final firing, and alternate finishing methods will also be discussed for students to explore on their own. This workshop is open to ages 16+.

This workshop will be held for 3 consecutive weeks on Tuesday and Thursday from 5:30-8:30PM. In addition, student can choose to participant in open studio hours on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 12:00-5:00PM ahead of the scheduled workshop time.

The dates are as follows:

  1. Tuesday, February 17th
  2. Thursday, February 19th
  3. Tuesday, February 24th
  4. Thursday, February 26th
  5. Tuesday, March 3rd
  6. Thursday, March 5th 
Course Fee : $300.00

Workshop Details

  • The workshop runs for 3 consecutive weeks on Tuesday and Thursday (2/17-3/5)
  • Class runs 5:30PM-8:30PM
  • Studios are open 12:00PM-5:00PM prior to workshop start Tuesday & Thursday (2/19-3/5)

Demographics

  • Adult workshop
  • Open to ages 16+

Important Details

  • Check-in begins 30 minutes prior to class start time
  • Materials are included in the cost of the workshop

Scholarships & Material Fees

Need help covering workshop costs? Arrowmont offers financial aid opportunities to broaden access to our arts and craft programs. We believe a diverse community enriches the learning experience for all.

Material fees are not included in our national workshop costs, but are included with the cost of our winter short workshops. A material list with estimated costs will be emailed about 30 days before the national workshop begins.

TUITION & FEES
TUITION & FEES
SCHOLARSHIPS
SCHOLARSHIPS

Cost Breakdown

Registration Fee
$10.00
3-Week Short Shop
$300.00
Estimated Cost*
*Fees exclude housing and meal plans
$310.00
Thomas McIntyre
Artist Bio
Thomas McIntyre
Thomas McIntyre was born and raised in Virginia and received a BFA with a concentration in architecture and sculpture from The School of the Art Institute of Chicago in 2023. Thomas’s work centers around constructing personified furniture objects. His practice is rooted in design history and informed by craft techniques. Through visceral material explorations and the consistent use of ceramic, metal, and wood, his often functional sculptures land in a realm of nostalgic absurdism. Thomas has worked as a studio assistant to artists including sculptor Anders Ruhwald. Most recently, Thomas has completed a residency at Peninsula School of Art in Wisconsin.
Artist Website
Artist Website
2025 Short Shops | One-Day Arts & Crafts Workshops at Arrowmont
Explore the Adult Studio
Designed to provide students a taste of the Arrowmont immersive art experience, short workshops for adults and youth ages 5+ are available in the winter and early spring. Available in a wide variety of topics and mediums, there’s something for the whole family at Arrowmont. Discover all there is to offer.
Explore the Adult Studio
Explore the Adult Studio