OLIVER HARDING: ASH GLAZES
3-8 NOV 2026
A workshop on the development and firing of ash glazes — one of the most time-honoured and beautiful ways of finishing ceramics.
In this 6-day workshop, ceramic artist and Guldagergaard’s kiln yard manager, Oliver Harding, will guide participants through the chemistry and practice of ash glazing — from preparing and experimenting with different ashes to firing and analysing results. Participants will gain hands-on experience in developing glaze recipes, preparing test pieces, and firing a wood kiln, while also deepening their understanding of how ash interacts with different clay bodies.
About Oliver Harding
Oliver Harding, originally from the United Kingdom and a graduate of the Royal College of Art, has spent time in Cornwall, London, and Denmark — places that have all had a significant influence on his practice. His work centres on material exploration, particularly through developing new glazes, with a primary focus on ash glazes, alongside thrown forms and an expanding interest in sculpture. Over time, he has also cultivated a deep passion for wood firing, especially during his time at Guldagergaard, where exposure to a wide range of kilns and firing techniques has allowed him to experiment further, refine his practice, and continually push the boundaries of the material.
Course Description
Tuesday, 3 November
10:00 Start: Introduction to the workshop, the space, and participants
– History of ash glazes: origins, uses, and types of ash
– Demonstration: making ash and best methods of collection (kilns, wood stoves)
– Overview of glaze recipes, choosing glaze directions
– Exploring differences between washed/unwashed ash and testing a variety of ashes (including samples from Solargil)
Wednesday, 4 November
– Discussion: clays, glazes, and lime blends
– Preparing different ash glaze bases and experimenting with additives
– Glazing personal works and test tiles in preparation for wood firing
Thursday, 5 November
– Kiln preparation and loading
– Wadding, packing, and discussion of firing process
Friday, 6 November
– Wood firing day
– Introduction to different kiln styles and firing methods
Saturday, 7 November
– Rest day (optional group dinner)
Sunday, 8 November
– Kiln unloading and cleaning
– Group discussion: analysing test results, recipe development, and improvement
– Farewell
What to Bring
– Bisque test tiles (stoneware and porcelain) to compare glaze effects across clay bodies
– Larger bisque pieces (no bigger than 20cm by 20cm) if you wish to try your ash glazes on them
– Respirator (mandatory for glaze room work – no participation without one)
– Natural fiber clothing for the wood firing
– Notebook and phone/camera for recording processes
– Optional: your own ash samples (label with type of wood burned)
Details
Language: English
Maximum 10 participants
Course Fee: 5150 DKK
Fee includes lunch(The first day) and breakfast(All days), ash, equipment for processing ash, wood-firing.
Meals and Drinks
Guldagergaard will be offering breakfast(The first day) and lunch(All days) during the workshop (please let us know on the application form if you have any dietary restrictions). During the workshop, we will also provide coffee and tea.
Participants are otherwise responsible for providing their own meals. You are welcome to use the communal kitchen in the manor house.
Accommodation during the Workshop
Unfortunately, it is not possible to stay at Guldagergaard. However, we refer you to Hotel Postgården or Kaptajnhuset.
Add on: Short-term Residency Option
Guldagergaard offers workshop participants the option to book a one or two-week residency before the workshop for an additional fee of 2500 DKK. This price includes access to studio facilities and accommodation for one week. It does not cover additional firings and materials.
For any questions regarding booking, or to reserve a short-term residency, please send an e-mail to: oskar@ceramic.dk. For any questions regarding the workshop and its content, please send an email to: oliver@ceramic.dk
