ARTS214

As an introduction to ceramics, this course explores various aspects of the medium through tactile creation, historical and culture production, and critical analysis. Students will learn about the physical properties of clay by constructing utilitarian and sculptural forms. With an emphasis on the fundamental manipulation of clay, this course covers; hand building, wheel throwing, glazing, and kiln firing procedures.
Historically valued as a cultural narrative, the ceramic medium communicates the values, ideals, and emotions of society. In many ways, it can and has been used to study civilization across the ages. This course will provide a framework for investigating connections between historical aspects of ceramics, its role within cultures around the world, and modern artistic expression.
Relevant to the discipline, students will build a working vocabulary and become more confident discussing their work through a series of critiques, presentations, short writing assignments, and lectures that emphasize analysis and evaluation of both contemporary and historical ceramic art.
Ceramics is a process-heavy discipline; in addition to the lab fee for this course students will be expected to individually purchase materials for their projects at off-campus locations totaling an average of 100 dollars.