Discover how a single square of clay tells stories that span continents and centuries. In this hands-on class, we’ll begin with the influence of Chinese porcelain and trace the evolution of tile design through Moorish geometry, Dutch Delftware, and end in contemporary Portugal. As we explore the cultural connections behind these beautiful traditions, you’ll design your own pattern and paint a ceramic tile with underglaze to bring history to life in your own hands.

Every glaze has a story. Beneath every glossy finish, crystal bloom, or rich celadon lies a remarkable combination of minerals, chemistry, and fire. Together, we’ll explore how simple minerals become glass, why glazes melt and flow, what creates color and texture, and how heat transforms everything. Along the way, we’ll discover the roles of silica, alumina, fluxes, metal oxides, underglazes, and other surface materials that bring ceramic work to life. Whether you’re just beginning your ceramics journey or looking to deepen your understanding, you’ll leave with a new appreciation for the science behind the magic—and the confidence to approach glazing with curiosity instead of mystery.