BISP was pleased to welcome back Chiang Mai–based ceramic artist Jirawong Wongantran of InClay Studio as our Artist in Residence for 2026. Over the course of the week, Jirawong worked closely with students across Years 10, 12 and 13, offering specialist guidance and practical expertise in ceramics as part of their IGCSE and IB Visual Arts programmes.

The residency began on Monday with Year 10 students, who focused primarily on developing their skills on the pottery wheel. For many, this was an opportunity to build confidence with throwing techniques, exploring form, balance and control while responding to the material properties of clay.

On Tuesday and Wednesday, Jirawong worked with Year 12 students, supporting both hand-building and wheel-based techniques. These sessions were structured to help students refine their technical skills while progressing towards a resolved final outcome linked to their coursework themes. Through demonstrations and individual feedback, students were encouraged to make purposeful decisions and consider how technique supports concept.

The week concluded with Year 13 students on Thursday and Friday, where the focus shifted to final outcome development. At this stage of their IB Visual Arts course, students worked intensively on resolving pieces for their portfolios, using Jirawong’s professional insight to refine form, surface treatment and overall presentation.

Throughout the residency, Jirawong shared not only technical knowledge but also his approach to ceramics as a reflective and process-driven practice. His guidance supported students in translating ideas into clay, strengthening both their practical skills and conceptual thinking.

We are grateful to Jirawong for his continued collaboration with BISP and for the meaningful learning experiences he provides our students. His annual visits remain a valued part of our Visual Arts programme, and we look forward to seeing how this year’s work contributes to future exhibitions and coursework outcomes. To learn more about his work, visit Inclay Studio.