If you are interested in studying Spanish in Mexico I strongly urge you to have comIf you are interested in studying Spanish in Mexico I strongly urge you to have completed at least The Learnables and Pimsleur Spanish before coming.
In fact, the more preparation BEFORE coming to a language school, in Mexico the better. Otherwise, I feel you will be throwing your money away.
Here is a convenient list of schools in Guanajuato, where I live, that I am not endorsing but only providing as a resource. Buyers beware and good luck with your Spanish learning adventure
List of Schools:
Mexicana Escuela
Welcome!
Escuela Mexicana is your Spanish language school in Guanajuato.
Why should you choose Escuela Mexicana?
ทWe offer the biggest variety of different grammar and conversation classes for all beginning, intermediate and advanced students
ทWe also teach interesting History, Culture, Literature, Politics, Cooking, Dance Classes
ทPersonalized instruction and small class sizes
ทHighly experienced instructors who have a university degree
ทIntensive Spanish conversation classes for travelers
ทYou can start every Monday throughout the year, exceptions possible (starting on Tuesday or Wednesday)
ทFree cultural activities, intercambios with Mexican students, movie nights and guided tours
ทBeautiful environment and family atmosphere
ทEconomical prices
ทLodging at the school www.casamexicanaweb.com or with local families
ทA summer program for English-speaking children
Special Features and Programs
ทTrimester Program - 12 week course: Flexible start date between September and April
ทExperience our total-immersion Plus Program, an intensive, three-week study of Mexican language and culture.
ทIntensive Spanish for Travelers, a personalized program with a duration of 1-2 weeks. The focus is travel survival skills: basic grammar, terms for restaurants, hotels and meeting people.
New !!!
ทInteresting Tours to various destinations in Mexico
ทPottery classes Experience how Mexican Artisans work
Email: escuelamexicana@hotmail.com
###
The Instituto Miguel de Cervantes
About Us...
The Instituto Miguel de Cervantes, founded in 1981, is Guanajuato's first Spanish school. It provides intensive language study and a practical language-immersion experience for individuals and groups. At the Institute, you will benefit from small classes, individualized instruction, and our proven teaching methods.
In addition, you will learn about Mexican history, literature, and art—and you can even try your hand at Mexican cooking and Latin dancing, if you are so inclined.
We also offer basic language programs for larger groups, as well as specialized programs for professionals (Spanish for Teachers, Spanish for Medical Personnel, Spanish for Social Workers, etc.).
Our Facilities
The Institute is located in the shadow of the historic Valenciana Mine (still operating), one of the greatest silver mines in all of colonial Latin America. Our physical facilities are unmatched in Guanajuato, offering spectacular views of the city, airy classrooms with natural light, tranquil flower gardens, meandering walkways with fountains and natural benches, and numerous nooks and crannies for contemplation or group discussion (in Spanish, of course).
Why Guanajuato?
The city of Guanajuato was founded in 1554. It became one the richest of Mexico's colonial cities because of the vast silver deposits found in the surrounding mountains. Several silver mines are still operating and are open for tours.
The legacy of Guanajuato's riches is reflected in the fine colonial architecture that graces many of the buildings in the city's historic center. Today, Guanajuato is a medium-sized city of 95,000 inhabitants and is home to the University of Guanajuato, whose students bring a youthful exuberance to the city's restaurants, cafes, and public spaces. The presence of the University also enriches the city's cultural life, with weekly symphony concerts, regularly scheduled lectures and seminars open to the public, and callejoneadas every Thursday through Sunday.
These evening musical walks through the streets of Guanajuato are led by estudiantinas, student musicians and singers. The estudiantina tradition is rooted in Andalucํa, Spain, and was transplanted to Guanajuato in 1972. It has become a unique attraction in this compact city of narrow streets and steep, twisting alleyways.
What We Offer
ทAll levels of Spanish
ทU.S. University credits (optional)
ทSmall classes - never more than 5 students
ทWorkshops and cultural activities: city tours, ceramics, weaving, hiking, mountain biking, salsa and merengue dance, cooking, etc...
ทFacilities Overlooking the city
ทAiry classrooms with natural light
ทVarious accommodation options: Home stays, Apartments, Hotels
ทTransportation to the school and back every day
ทFree Pick up at the airport
ทFree unlimited use of e-mail
http://www.mexonline.com/cervantes.htm
###
Study Spanish in Colonial Mexico and
Open Doors to Your Future!
El Quijote
- Spanish Language Abroad Programs open the door to Guanajuato and you open the door to history, culture, the Spanish language, all in one of Mexico's most preserved colonial cities.
The charm and beauty of Guanajuato's colonial architecture, quaint plazas and stone streets, combined with the culture and youthfulness of the city's state university, unite past and present to make Guanajuato an outstanding destination for studying the Spanish language, Mexican history and culture.
Picture yourself learning Spanish in this ideal setting and El Quijote will take you there. El Quijote's programs stress language acquisition through total immersion for students at any level of proficiency. Students, given the opportunity to take most of their classes with Mexican students and live with a host family, assimilate the language by living and experiencing the culture.
Come inside and learn how to take the first step towards a fulfilling study abroad program in Guanajuato, Mexico.
For more information on El Quijote - Spanish Language Abroad Programs
Please visit our website: www.mexicoabroad.com
E-mail: info@mexicoabroad.com
Telephone/Fax: (011-52) 473-731-0297 (from the U.S.)
Write Us:
El Quijote
Saucillo Panoramica Letra "A"
C.P. 36000
Guanajuato, Gto.
Mexico
Expatriates Doug and Cindi Bower have successfully expatriated to Mexico, learning through trial and error how to do it from the conception of the initial idea to driving up to their new home in another country. Now the potential expatriate can benefit from their more than three years of pre-expat research to their more than two years of actually living in Mexico. The Plain Truth about Living in Mexico answers the potential expatriate's questions by leading them through the process from the beginning to the end. In this comprehensive guide, you will learn not only how-to expatriate but will learn what to expect, in daily life, before coming to Mexico.
BUY BOOK HERE: http://www.universal-publishers.com/book.php?method=ISBN&book=1581124570
The "Hot" New Collectibles
A few months ago I wrote an article named "Signed vs. Unsigned -
Buying Art, Pottery and Collectibles". The basic premise of the
article was my own opinion about "Should you pay the price for
signed jewelry, art and collectibles, as opposed to buying what
you love, whether signed or unsigned?". Since writing that
article, I have read in one of my many collectible newsletters
and magazines that the "hot" new collectible trend is buying
unsigned and unknown artist and artisan items. I personally
think this is great! Not only does it help the collectibles
market, in several different areas such as unsigned jewelry,
studio art pottery and original artworks, who is to say what
that "unknown artist" or unsigned item will someday be worth?
Picasso received hardly any recognition while alive, but after
his death, we all know where the prices went on his works,
straight through the roof! If you are a collector, this is the
perfect time to start turning your buying trends towards
unsigned items, or as yet, unknown makers. The prices are much
lower than the normal collectible names, as well as the fact
that no matter what market you are buying in - BUY WHAT YOU
LOVE! This way, you don't end up spending a fortune on an item
that in five years may not even be considered a good collectible
investment. Remember the "Beanie Baby"ฉ craze? Well, now there
are tons of folks out there with mountains of "beanies" that
they may have paid a small fortune for, and I sure hope they
love them because that market is pretty much dead! The
difference between paying $150.00 for a Beanie Babyฉ during the
insanity of the craze feels much worse when the bottom drops out
of the market, than spending $150.00 for a couple of beautiful
art pottery bowls or vases, especially if you love the look of
the items anyway. When you look at the items that you purchased,
ones that could possibly become not only valuable collectibles
based on the development of the artist during their creating
lifetime or at the very least, loved heirlooms that are passed
on in a family, this all begins to make a lot of sense. If you
buy what appeals to you, you can never go wrong. It is my
philosophy to by what is aesthetically and artistically
appealing to me, is unique, and I could care less whether the
artist or maker is "known and listed" or not! Five years from
now, I will not be crying over my purchase and the money I
spent, I will still be loving the item as much when I purchased
it, if not more! If it goes up in value, so much the better.
That is just a wonderful side fact that doesn't even enter my
mind at the time of purchase. I buy because I like what I see,
hear, feel, etc. Perhaps this is why so many are turning to the
unsigned and unmarked items, without quite as much emphasis on
the signatures or hallmarks. Sure it's nice to own a full parure
of Miriam Haskell jewelry. But, I am more content with an
unsigned, unique sterling pin for a fraction of the price, that
I can actually wear and show off for a fraction of the price I
would have paid for the Haskell name. Of course, Haskell jewelry
is and always will be a hot collectible in the jewelry market,
but consider this. The majority of people collect her items
because of the artistic appeal, unique designs and quality of
the piece. Shouldn't we judge all items we consider purchasing
by those same rules, no matter who made them? I think so. I also
feel that in the long run, as time goes by, those purchases made
with the heart and the eyes will be the ones that we grow to
love the most. Sure, Haskell jewelry is a great collectible,
sure to increase in value as time goes by. But who is to say
that that little pottery vase made with great form and design by
a student in an art pottery studio or class will not someday be
worth a small fortune? Plus, as it increases in value, if it
does, you will have not paid a small fortune for it, you have
admired and loved it since you bought it, and your family may
now already arguing over who gets it one of these days when you
go to that great auction in the sky, regardless of the market
value! Items we acquire through life, if well loved and worn or
displayed with pride and love, develop a value all their own.
How do you think the collectibles market began? For instance, we
have in our family, a beautiful and very large ewer. For years
and years, it has been passed down from my grandmother, to my
mother, and now my sister and I are determined that this ewer
will never leave our family, if we can help it. Turns out that
this ewer is a Rookwood or Roseville, and most likely worth a
small fortune! Do you think that my Grandmother purchased it
because of the name? No, she bought it because it was pretty and
she loved the way it looked. Names meant nothing to her, she
just loved the look and feel of the pottery, and it has been on
constant display in our family, in one home or the other,
because of where it came from, not who made it! To us it is
priceless, no amount of money could ever get it away from us. To
the collector, it has a set price, although it may be a large
price, but that is no matter to us. We will never sell it
because of the memories it holds. I always get a little giggle
(not to offend anyone, it's just my strange sense of humor...)
when a dealer lists something as "An important piece of "such
and such"". Aren't they all important in one way or another?
They were important to the person that made them, or designed
them, or cast them, or threw the clay, I don't care if it was a
10 year old child in pottery class, or a ewer like the one in
our family. I guess what I am trying to say is that all items
have value, from one viewpoint or the other, and we shouldn't be
so caught up in the "name game". Broaden your horizons on your
next browsing trip and always remember that "one man's trash is
another man's treasure"!
Buying Art, Pottery and Collectibles". The basic premise of the
article was my own opinion about "Should you pay the price for
signed jewelry, art and collectibles, as opposed to buying what
you love, whether signed or unsigned?". Since writing that
article, I have read in one of my many collectible newsletters
and magazines that the "hot" new collectible trend is buying
unsigned and unknown artist and artisan items. I personally
think this is great! Not only does it help the collectibles
market, in several different areas such as unsigned jewelry,
studio art pottery and original artworks, who is to say what
that "unknown artist" or unsigned item will someday be worth?
Picasso received hardly any recognition while alive, but after
his death, we all know where the prices went on his works,
straight through the roof! If you are a collector, this is the
perfect time to start turning your buying trends towards
unsigned items, or as yet, unknown makers. The prices are much
lower than the normal collectible names, as well as the fact
that no matter what market you are buying in - BUY WHAT YOU
LOVE! This way, you don't end up spending a fortune on an item
that in five years may not even be considered a good collectible
investment. Remember the "Beanie Baby"ฉ craze? Well, now there
are tons of folks out there with mountains of "beanies" that
they may have paid a small fortune for, and I sure hope they
love them because that market is pretty much dead! The
difference between paying $150.00 for a Beanie Babyฉ during the
insanity of the craze feels much worse when the bottom drops out
of the market, than spending $150.00 for a couple of beautiful
art pottery bowls or vases, especially if you love the look of
the items anyway. When you look at the items that you purchased,
ones that could possibly become not only valuable collectibles
based on the development of the artist during their creating
lifetime or at the very least, loved heirlooms that are passed
on in a family, this all begins to make a lot of sense. If you
buy what appeals to you, you can never go wrong. It is my
philosophy to by what is aesthetically and artistically
appealing to me, is unique, and I could care less whether the
artist or maker is "known and listed" or not! Five years from
now, I will not be crying over my purchase and the money I
spent, I will still be loving the item as much when I purchased
it, if not more! If it goes up in value, so much the better.
That is just a wonderful side fact that doesn't even enter my
mind at the time of purchase. I buy because I like what I see,
hear, feel, etc. Perhaps this is why so many are turning to the
unsigned and unmarked items, without quite as much emphasis on
the signatures or hallmarks. Sure it's nice to own a full parure
of Miriam Haskell jewelry. But, I am more content with an
unsigned, unique sterling pin for a fraction of the price, that
I can actually wear and show off for a fraction of the price I
would have paid for the Haskell name. Of course, Haskell jewelry
is and always will be a hot collectible in the jewelry market,
but consider this. The majority of people collect her items
because of the artistic appeal, unique designs and quality of
the piece. Shouldn't we judge all items we consider purchasing
by those same rules, no matter who made them? I think so. I also
feel that in the long run, as time goes by, those purchases made
with the heart and the eyes will be the ones that we grow to
love the most. Sure, Haskell jewelry is a great collectible,
sure to increase in value as time goes by. But who is to say
that that little pottery vase made with great form and design by
a student in an art pottery studio or class will not someday be
worth a small fortune? Plus, as it increases in value, if it
does, you will have not paid a small fortune for it, you have
admired and loved it since you bought it, and your family may
now already arguing over who gets it one of these days when you
go to that great auction in the sky, regardless of the market
value! Items we acquire through life, if well loved and worn or
displayed with pride and love, develop a value all their own.
How do you think the collectibles market began? For instance, we
have in our family, a beautiful and very large ewer. For years
and years, it has been passed down from my grandmother, to my
mother, and now my sister and I are determined that this ewer
will never leave our family, if we can help it. Turns out that
this ewer is a Rookwood or Roseville, and most likely worth a
small fortune! Do you think that my Grandmother purchased it
because of the name? No, she bought it because it was pretty and
she loved the way it looked. Names meant nothing to her, she
just loved the look and feel of the pottery, and it has been on
constant display in our family, in one home or the other,
because of where it came from, not who made it! To us it is
priceless, no amount of money could ever get it away from us. To
the collector, it has a set price, although it may be a large
price, but that is no matter to us. We will never sell it
because of the memories it holds. I always get a little giggle
(not to offend anyone, it's just my strange sense of humor...)
when a dealer lists something as "An important piece of "such
and such"". Aren't they all important in one way or another?
They were important to the person that made them, or designed
them, or cast them, or threw the clay, I don't care if it was a
10 year old child in pottery class, or a ewer like the one in
our family. I guess what I am trying to say is that all items
have value, from one viewpoint or the other, and we shouldn't be
so caught up in the "name game". Broaden your horizons on your
next browsing trip and always remember that "one man's trash is
another man's treasure"!
Holiday Gifts on a Budget
The Christmas season can be especially difficult when it
comes to finding unique, personal presents for friends and
coworkers. You spend hours shopping for the perfect gift at
a price you can afford, but everything seems either too
generic or overpriced. Never fear; there are options. The
best gifts I've received have often been small, unique, and
inexpensive presents created by friends who really took the
time to get to know me and find out what I would want.
One of my favorite gifts is a bowl a friend made for me
while taking a pottery class. I was constantly losing my
keys, so she made a lovely little bowl, painted it to match
my d้cor, and gave it to me as a Christmas gift. Thanks to
this small, inexpensive present, I scarcely ever lose my
keys, and I have a beautiful decoration.
You can do the same things for your friends. Maybe you're
not in a pottery class, but there are many pottery stores
that allow you to paint your own piece for a small price.
There are also stores that allow you to create your own
jewelry as well. Other ideas include buying ornaments and
decorating them for your friends' trees, or you can
decoupage a small box with photographs and it can hold
letters or trinkets. You can also hit the day after
Thanksgiving sales to find great little gifts for rock-
bottom prices.
A simple, but thoughtful idea that is often overlooked is
baking a treat for your friends. Everyone loves to get food
that they didn't have to buy, so make a batch of cookies or
brownies to hand-deliver to your friends and colleagues.
You can also cook a dinner and throw a holiday party for
everyone. The holidays can be stressful, and people love to
have a place to go and relax.
You can also re-gift. I realize that many people find this
to be tacky or rude. However, America has one of the most
wasteful cultures of the world. A person gets tired of
something, and rather than re-gifting it or sharing it with
someone else, we tend to just throw it away. It really is
okay to re-gift something to someone if you know they would
really love it; don't hand off junk, but if you don't need
something anymore or it doesn't match your d้cor, pass it
on to someone who will enjoy it.
Good luck with your holiday shopping, and use some of
these options to help you save money and time shopping for
your holiday gifts this season. Have a very happy holiday!
Debra Amery is a frequent contributor to FTC Gifts offering valuable free information to help you select the perfect gift every time. Articles by Debra can also be found at First Class Wedding and Flowers eShop
comes to finding unique, personal presents for friends and
coworkers. You spend hours shopping for the perfect gift at
a price you can afford, but everything seems either too
generic or overpriced. Never fear; there are options. The
best gifts I've received have often been small, unique, and
inexpensive presents created by friends who really took the
time to get to know me and find out what I would want.
One of my favorite gifts is a bowl a friend made for me
while taking a pottery class. I was constantly losing my
keys, so she made a lovely little bowl, painted it to match
my d้cor, and gave it to me as a Christmas gift. Thanks to
this small, inexpensive present, I scarcely ever lose my
keys, and I have a beautiful decoration.
You can do the same things for your friends. Maybe you're
not in a pottery class, but there are many pottery stores
that allow you to paint your own piece for a small price.
There are also stores that allow you to create your own
jewelry as well. Other ideas include buying ornaments and
decorating them for your friends' trees, or you can
decoupage a small box with photographs and it can hold
letters or trinkets. You can also hit the day after
Thanksgiving sales to find great little gifts for rock-
bottom prices.
A simple, but thoughtful idea that is often overlooked is
baking a treat for your friends. Everyone loves to get food
that they didn't have to buy, so make a batch of cookies or
brownies to hand-deliver to your friends and colleagues.
You can also cook a dinner and throw a holiday party for
everyone. The holidays can be stressful, and people love to
have a place to go and relax.
You can also re-gift. I realize that many people find this
to be tacky or rude. However, America has one of the most
wasteful cultures of the world. A person gets tired of
something, and rather than re-gifting it or sharing it with
someone else, we tend to just throw it away. It really is
okay to re-gift something to someone if you know they would
really love it; don't hand off junk, but if you don't need
something anymore or it doesn't match your d้cor, pass it
on to someone who will enjoy it.
Good luck with your holiday shopping, and use some of
these options to help you save money and time shopping for
your holiday gifts this season. Have a very happy holiday!
Debra Amery is a frequent contributor to FTC Gifts offering valuable free information to help you select the perfect gift every time. Articles by Debra can also be found at First Class Wedding and Flowers eShop
Why Acting Class is Crucial in Your Development as an Actor!
"Do I really need to go to acting class; my friends think I'm a
natural performer? Isn't acting all about knowing lines anyway?"
If only acting where all about knowing lines. If it where that
simple everyone would be an actor. Acting requires skill and
discipline on many levels and to start to learn about these
skills and disciplines acting class is the PERFECT place.
An acting class is not like any other class, history or English
or pottery. There is no formula or textbook regurgitation to
passing an acting class.
Acting class is very different; really it is the study of YOU! Of the Self!
Great acting comes from a place of knowing. Knowing your truth,
knowing how to relate, knowing how to connect and communicate.
Acting class is the place where you go to KNOW more about YOU!
The way to learn more about your Self is to put yourself out
there. Try a love scene. How do you feel? What happens when I
allow myself to be funny or sad? How does it feel? Are my
instincts tuned? How do people react? What can I do to go
deeper?
An acting class should be a safe environment where you can learn
to express yourself. All of you. And even if your efforts flop
this is the perfect environment because it hasn't cost you
anything in terms of losing a job or making the wrong impression
with the people that count.
Find an acting class or acting teacher that is supportive and
encouraging, one that is constructive and objective not critical.
Acting class, first and foremost should be FUN but also
challenging! You want it to be a place where you are
continuously discovering, going deeper, and pushing your comfort
zone.
Use your acting class to try everything. Don't shy away from
your impulses, urges, and ideas, embrace them. This is how you
will grow as an actor.
This is the place where you can really screw up, fall flat on
your face, and it doesn't matter. This is the place to learn to
push the boundaries, to discover who you are and how you work as
an actor.
Also I find that when you are continuously working on your craft
in such an environment you're in a state ready to work, you have
greater confidence in your ability. You're prepared to nail that
role!
So go out there, take an acting class and:
Express yourself
Learn the craft, Gather the tools
Find your Technique
Make mistakes
Learn the Lingo
Work with other like-minded people
Meet people and start a theatre group
See if your have what it takes
Practice, Practice, Practice
Add to your resume
Free yourself up
And most importantly;
Have fun!
To Your acting
Leanne Mauro
Leanne Mauro
natural performer? Isn't acting all about knowing lines anyway?"
If only acting where all about knowing lines. If it where that
simple everyone would be an actor. Acting requires skill and
discipline on many levels and to start to learn about these
skills and disciplines acting class is the PERFECT place.
An acting class is not like any other class, history or English
or pottery. There is no formula or textbook regurgitation to
passing an acting class.
Acting class is very different; really it is the study of YOU! Of the Self!
Great acting comes from a place of knowing. Knowing your truth,
knowing how to relate, knowing how to connect and communicate.
Acting class is the place where you go to KNOW more about YOU!
The way to learn more about your Self is to put yourself out
there. Try a love scene. How do you feel? What happens when I
allow myself to be funny or sad? How does it feel? Are my
instincts tuned? How do people react? What can I do to go
deeper?
An acting class should be a safe environment where you can learn
to express yourself. All of you. And even if your efforts flop
this is the perfect environment because it hasn't cost you
anything in terms of losing a job or making the wrong impression
with the people that count.
Find an acting class or acting teacher that is supportive and
encouraging, one that is constructive and objective not critical.
Acting class, first and foremost should be FUN but also
challenging! You want it to be a place where you are
continuously discovering, going deeper, and pushing your comfort
zone.
Use your acting class to try everything. Don't shy away from
your impulses, urges, and ideas, embrace them. This is how you
will grow as an actor.
This is the place where you can really screw up, fall flat on
your face, and it doesn't matter. This is the place to learn to
push the boundaries, to discover who you are and how you work as
an actor.
Also I find that when you are continuously working on your craft
in such an environment you're in a state ready to work, you have
greater confidence in your ability. You're prepared to nail that
role!
So go out there, take an acting class and:
Express yourself
Learn the craft, Gather the tools
Find your Technique
Make mistakes
Learn the Lingo
Work with other like-minded people
Meet people and start a theatre group
See if your have what it takes
Practice, Practice, Practice
Add to your resume
Free yourself up
And most importantly;
Have fun!
To Your acting
Leanne Mauro
Leanne Mauro
Memories of Pottery Wheel Clay
Do you remember back in elementary school when you were given some clay in class and left to be free with your creative mind? It was a wonderful time when you could let your imagination run wild with the clay in your hands. Some can still recall the feel and smell of the clay. For most of us, the clay was a tan or brown color unlike the myriad of colors available today.
Back then, some of the more popular creations included ash trays, cups and vases. Despite the numerous ash trays produced at the time, I don't think there were an equal number of smokers. Instead, there were well intentioned parents accepting the awkwardly molded creations and displaying them in their living room to boost the ego of their children.
Slightly older kids and adults took mounds of pottery wheel clay and thrust them down upon pottery wheels. Although many think working with the wheel is relatively easy, it does take a bit of skill. You can toss the wet clay onto the wheel ever so slightly off center and it might fly off the plate from the centrifugal force. Once you got it to stick, you would want it to be as centered as possible as the entire process lends itself to creating symmetrical objects. Starting off-center can lead to oddly weighted vases or misshapen bowls.
The wheel may not be the attraction for many people. Many students abandon it after just one afternoon of fallen cups or broken vases. Too many spins and you can squeeze a perfectly fine vessel into another blob of colorless, wet clay.
For others, incredible creations can come from the use of clay molds. The clay can be molded into beautiful shapes usually demonstrating work beyond the skill of the artist. There are a wide variety of molds out there to satisfy the creative urges of even the pickiest artist. Unlike the wheel, the satisfaction rate is much higher. Many go overboard creating more objects than they know what to do with! Usually, the creations make great gifts.
One of the most universally appealing works is clay art dinnerware. Everyone needs dinnerware for their home - plates, bowls, serving dishes, etc. With some easy to use tools, you can create some amazing pieces. All of them can be unique and specific to individual tastes. You can use any combination of colors. You can use traditional shapes or more unique geometric patterns to really make your work standout.
Back then, some of the more popular creations included ash trays, cups and vases. Despite the numerous ash trays produced at the time, I don't think there were an equal number of smokers. Instead, there were well intentioned parents accepting the awkwardly molded creations and displaying them in their living room to boost the ego of their children.
Slightly older kids and adults took mounds of pottery wheel clay and thrust them down upon pottery wheels. Although many think working with the wheel is relatively easy, it does take a bit of skill. You can toss the wet clay onto the wheel ever so slightly off center and it might fly off the plate from the centrifugal force. Once you got it to stick, you would want it to be as centered as possible as the entire process lends itself to creating symmetrical objects. Starting off-center can lead to oddly weighted vases or misshapen bowls.
The wheel may not be the attraction for many people. Many students abandon it after just one afternoon of fallen cups or broken vases. Too many spins and you can squeeze a perfectly fine vessel into another blob of colorless, wet clay.
For others, incredible creations can come from the use of clay molds. The clay can be molded into beautiful shapes usually demonstrating work beyond the skill of the artist. There are a wide variety of molds out there to satisfy the creative urges of even the pickiest artist. Unlike the wheel, the satisfaction rate is much higher. Many go overboard creating more objects than they know what to do with! Usually, the creations make great gifts.
One of the most universally appealing works is clay art dinnerware. Everyone needs dinnerware for their home - plates, bowls, serving dishes, etc. With some easy to use tools, you can create some amazing pieces. All of them can be unique and specific to individual tastes. You can use any combination of colors. You can use traditional shapes or more unique geometric patterns to really make your work standout.
Entering the world of creative clay work is easy. It doesn't necessarily require a special studio or even a dedicated workspace. AMACO has a wide selection of clay molds to satisfy all interests. Focus your work on clay art dinnerware as a creative gift idea. If you are willing to branch out, find a local shop with a pottery wheel and AMACO can provide high quality pottery wheel clay for your work. Find all your supplies and get creative ideas with AMACO.
Hump Molds Make Textured Pottery Easy
Textured pottery reminiscent of ancient designs can be reproduced in art classes today to help students easily connect to the historic tradition of ceramics, but with the help of safe, modern materials and tools and technology such as mechanical slab rollers. Throughout human history, artisans from many civilizations and cultures have created works of ceramic art which were inspired by their beliefs, knowledge, and environment. Such artwork is a like a visual heirloom of a certain time and culture.
Students today can participate in a textured ceramic project which teaches them both ancient art history and aesthetics in a fun, hands-on project. Mexican pottery self-hardening clay is used, together with lead-free underglaze. A â…œ" slab is rolled out using a slab roller or a rolling pin together with wood slats. If using a rolling pin it is a good idea to rotate the slab ¼ turn between passes, to secure an even slab. Using a rectangular cardboard template, uniform pieces are cut out of the slab, saving enough remaining clay to create bottoms. The canvas texture can be smoothed out with a flexible clay rib.
Then the slabs are centered over textured hump molds, and the clay is gently tamped onto the molds with sandbags. The slab is gently rolled with a pony roller, to impress the entire texture into the clay and to keep it from moving. The fully-impressed slab is peeled from the mold, turned with its textured side down, and rolled around a cardboard tube with the same circumference as the mold is long. The cylinder is stood up and both of its edges are roughened to insure a good seal, then glued together with slip. It is necessary to press gently but firmly to make a tight seam. Then the top and bottom edges are smoothed out with a moist sponge. The cardboard tube is then slipped out of the cylinder, and the cylinder can be pressed into an oval or even square cross-section.
The piece is stood on the left-over clay slab, and then it is joined to its base with slip (pressing down to insure a good bond). The piece is cut away from the base slab leaving ¼" all around to form a stable foot. Excess clay is trimmed from the base, and a 45° back cut is made around the base to create an attractive shadow-effect under the piece. Lug handles can be fashioned from ¾" coils of clay bent into U-shape and attached to the piece with slip. The piece should be allowed to dry on a ware cart until it is no longer feels cool when touched. After bisque firing to cone 04, the piece can be painted with glaze before refiring.
Students today can participate in a textured ceramic project which teaches them both ancient art history and aesthetics in a fun, hands-on project. Mexican pottery self-hardening clay is used, together with lead-free underglaze. A â…œ" slab is rolled out using a slab roller or a rolling pin together with wood slats. If using a rolling pin it is a good idea to rotate the slab ¼ turn between passes, to secure an even slab. Using a rectangular cardboard template, uniform pieces are cut out of the slab, saving enough remaining clay to create bottoms. The canvas texture can be smoothed out with a flexible clay rib.
Then the slabs are centered over textured hump molds, and the clay is gently tamped onto the molds with sandbags. The slab is gently rolled with a pony roller, to impress the entire texture into the clay and to keep it from moving. The fully-impressed slab is peeled from the mold, turned with its textured side down, and rolled around a cardboard tube with the same circumference as the mold is long. The cylinder is stood up and both of its edges are roughened to insure a good seal, then glued together with slip. It is necessary to press gently but firmly to make a tight seam. Then the top and bottom edges are smoothed out with a moist sponge. The cardboard tube is then slipped out of the cylinder, and the cylinder can be pressed into an oval or even square cross-section.
The piece is stood on the left-over clay slab, and then it is joined to its base with slip (pressing down to insure a good bond). The piece is cut away from the base slab leaving ¼" all around to form a stable foot. Excess clay is trimmed from the base, and a 45° back cut is made around the base to create an attractive shadow-effect under the piece. Lug handles can be fashioned from ¾" coils of clay bent into U-shape and attached to the piece with slip. The piece should be allowed to dry on a ware cart until it is no longer feels cool when touched. After bisque firing to cone 04, the piece can be painted with glaze before refiring.
Textured pottery in a variety of shapes and designs is easy to make with modern materials and tools such as slab rollers and textured hump molds. Students can be proud of the work on their ware cart and feel part of an ongoing ceramics history.
Wine Classes: When School Gets Cool
When most people think of school, they are usually transported back to their elementary school days, a time of crayons, grumpy cafeteria ladies, and tennis shoes filled with playground gravel. Because they are taken back to a time of youth, people don't usually think that "school" and "wine" belong in the same sentence; the school board would have had a fit the instance cartons of chocolate milk were replaced with bottles of Pinot Noir.
However, in adulthood wine and school often go together, merging with each other in the form of a wine class. A wine class, despite what some people may think, isn't merely a class where students read the Grapes of Wrath or A Raisin in the Sun. Instead, a wine class teaches its students about wine tasting, wine clubs, wine glasses, wine openers, wine corks, and just about every wine related subject on the vine.
Why Take a Wine Class
From the newest novice to the ripest connoisseur, wine classes offer all sorts of things. For beginners, wine classes teach people how to truly taste wine, savoring its aroma and intricacies. This wine tasting helps novices to learn their preferences, get to know the vintages they really like, and allows them to identify the differences in wine, arming them with the ability to provide evaluation.
For the connoisseur, there is always more wine knowledge to obtain, no matter how much is already known. This is because wine contains so much information. From learning about the variety of wine glasses to learning about the differences in wine corks, the most accomplished wine drinker will still benefit from a class. When it comes to wine, the knowledge is nearly bottomless.
Wine classes also provides an outlet for people with commonalities to get together, discussing their hopes, their dreams, their Merlots. The classes are fun, lacking the monotony of reading a book or watching a film, and give the learner more hands on learning, a chance to grab the grape by the vine.
What Happens During a Wine Class?
On the first day of a wine class, people may understandably feel nervous, they might not know anyone or be worried that they have forgotten their corkscrew. But, of all the classes known to ever fill a schoolroom, wine classes are among the neatest to take. Trigonometry has nothing on 'em.
The syllabus of a wine class will differ from class to class and level to level. Overall, however, classes touch on a variety of topics. Some of the lessons include the basics of wine tasting, how to recognize specific flavors, how to compare wines, wine history, reading a wine label, navigating a wine store, at-home wine tasting, compiling a wine tasting kit, the differences of wine regions, using wine vocabulary, pairing food and wine, wine openers, wine corks, and ordering wine in a restaurant. Many of the courses include several in-class wine tastings as well as a few bottles for practicing at home.
Different Types of Wine Classes
Wine classes, like wine itself, come in all shapes and sizes. There are classes aimed at teaching people the specifics of wine glasses and there are classes that focus only on pairing wines with desserts. Some classes only offer instruction on tasting Italian wine, while some are focused on the tasting of wines from Australia. Certain classes may instruct a person how to purchase wine, while others may focus on the variety of wine openers.
While there are a variety of wine classes offered all over the world, some people may not be able to locate one near them. Others, wanting to get a leg up on other students by doing extra "homework," may simply be better off not driving. For these folks, online classes are offered. While these don't allow for the interaction of physical wine classes, they are the next best thing. Some people, wanting to study independently or go at their own pace, may even prefer online classes to others.
The length of the wine class, as well as the cost, can drastically vary. Some classes are only a few hours long and cost around 40 dollars while other classes can last for several weeks and cost a few hundred dollars. Many of the classes have access to study materials online and offer, upon completion, certificates and diplomas (to frame and hang from the wall of your wine cellar).
Wine classes are a great, easy, and quick way to learn about wine. They allow you to go from novice to connoisseur in no time at all, arming you with the knowledge to impress friends, family, and yourself. Along these lines, they are also fun and enjoyable; while a pottery class takes a field trip to an art store, you may find your wine class taking a field trip to Napa Valley.
Jennifer Jordan is the senior editor at http://www.savoreachglass.com. With a vast knowledge of wine etiquette, she writes articles on everything from how to hold a glass of wine to how to hold your hair back after too many glasses. Ultimately, she writes her articles with the intention that readers will remember wine is fun and each glass of anything fun should always be savored.
However, in adulthood wine and school often go together, merging with each other in the form of a wine class. A wine class, despite what some people may think, isn't merely a class where students read the Grapes of Wrath or A Raisin in the Sun. Instead, a wine class teaches its students about wine tasting, wine clubs, wine glasses, wine openers, wine corks, and just about every wine related subject on the vine.
Why Take a Wine Class
From the newest novice to the ripest connoisseur, wine classes offer all sorts of things. For beginners, wine classes teach people how to truly taste wine, savoring its aroma and intricacies. This wine tasting helps novices to learn their preferences, get to know the vintages they really like, and allows them to identify the differences in wine, arming them with the ability to provide evaluation.
For the connoisseur, there is always more wine knowledge to obtain, no matter how much is already known. This is because wine contains so much information. From learning about the variety of wine glasses to learning about the differences in wine corks, the most accomplished wine drinker will still benefit from a class. When it comes to wine, the knowledge is nearly bottomless.
Wine classes also provides an outlet for people with commonalities to get together, discussing their hopes, their dreams, their Merlots. The classes are fun, lacking the monotony of reading a book or watching a film, and give the learner more hands on learning, a chance to grab the grape by the vine.
What Happens During a Wine Class?
On the first day of a wine class, people may understandably feel nervous, they might not know anyone or be worried that they have forgotten their corkscrew. But, of all the classes known to ever fill a schoolroom, wine classes are among the neatest to take. Trigonometry has nothing on 'em.
The syllabus of a wine class will differ from class to class and level to level. Overall, however, classes touch on a variety of topics. Some of the lessons include the basics of wine tasting, how to recognize specific flavors, how to compare wines, wine history, reading a wine label, navigating a wine store, at-home wine tasting, compiling a wine tasting kit, the differences of wine regions, using wine vocabulary, pairing food and wine, wine openers, wine corks, and ordering wine in a restaurant. Many of the courses include several in-class wine tastings as well as a few bottles for practicing at home.
Different Types of Wine Classes
Wine classes, like wine itself, come in all shapes and sizes. There are classes aimed at teaching people the specifics of wine glasses and there are classes that focus only on pairing wines with desserts. Some classes only offer instruction on tasting Italian wine, while some are focused on the tasting of wines from Australia. Certain classes may instruct a person how to purchase wine, while others may focus on the variety of wine openers.
While there are a variety of wine classes offered all over the world, some people may not be able to locate one near them. Others, wanting to get a leg up on other students by doing extra "homework," may simply be better off not driving. For these folks, online classes are offered. While these don't allow for the interaction of physical wine classes, they are the next best thing. Some people, wanting to study independently or go at their own pace, may even prefer online classes to others.
The length of the wine class, as well as the cost, can drastically vary. Some classes are only a few hours long and cost around 40 dollars while other classes can last for several weeks and cost a few hundred dollars. Many of the classes have access to study materials online and offer, upon completion, certificates and diplomas (to frame and hang from the wall of your wine cellar).
Wine classes are a great, easy, and quick way to learn about wine. They allow you to go from novice to connoisseur in no time at all, arming you with the knowledge to impress friends, family, and yourself. Along these lines, they are also fun and enjoyable; while a pottery class takes a field trip to an art store, you may find your wine class taking a field trip to Napa Valley.
Jennifer Jordan is the senior editor at http://www.savoreachglass.com. With a vast knowledge of wine etiquette, she writes articles on everything from how to hold a glass of wine to how to hold your hair back after too many glasses. Ultimately, she writes her articles with the intention that readers will remember wine is fun and each glass of anything fun should always be savored.
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