Explore basic techniques of slip-casting to create a smooth surface for decoration. Students will learn how to make one-part molds and realize that casting is a unique process to create a quick blank canvas for narrative work. Students will learn how to use the smooth surface of cast forms to explore personal connections to imagery through the technique of mishima.

Nicole Aquillano took the unconventional path to become a full time studio potter by ﬁrst pursuing a career in civil engineering; eventually following her passion to Rhode Island School of Design to earn an MFA in ceramics. In 2012, Nicole set up her studio in the Fort Point Area of Boston. She draws each image by hand directly into the porcelain clay with a knife, and inlays black underglaze. The high temperature of the kiln combined with the mid-range glazes draw out the underglaze from the inlaid images and create an unpredictable downward ﬂow, obscuring the image, much like a faded memory. She often references imagery from her past, as a way to infuse her work with memories and create a concrete connection.