ARTS1801: Introduction to Ceramics: Wheel-Throwing and Hand-Building Techniques

Are you interested in working with a material and practice that dates back 20,000 plus years? The creative journey in this course includes learning about diverse global histories, people, and cultures and the dynamic realm of contemporary ceramics. This introductory ceramic course focuses on the various methods and processes of working with clay as an artistic medium. One half of the semester focuses on hand-building methods and techniques. The other half will focus on learning wheel-throwing methods and techniques. This hands-on experience with clay unifies hand, eye, and mind. You will learn foundational three-dimensional concepts, terminology, and vocabulary related to ceramics and explore the range of forms and processes to create functional and sculptural works with clay. In addition, the curriculum places importance on creating space to examine and discuss diverse historical and contemporary global perspectives related to ceramics.You will learn to make clay, load electric and gas kilns, fundamentals of glaze chemistry, and ceramic lab health and safety protocols. Your finished pieces will reflect essential skills, techniques, and knowledge of the complete ceramic production process. This course provides relevant, challenging, and rewarding projects developing creative and critical thinking skills to sustain long-term creative growth. You will be supported with meaningful direction from your instructor and constructive critique, discussion, and self-reflection with peers. At the end of this course, your knowledge and technical skills will prepare you for upper-level ceramic courses.

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