GENERAL COURSE INFORMATION FOR ALL CERAMICS COURSES

Instructor: Bill Schran
Phone: 845-6075
E-mail: wschran@nvcc.edu

Course Description:

Problems in the design and production of functional and non-functional ceramic works, including hand building [Art 153], use of the pottery wheel [Art 154], functional ceramics [Art 235], sculptural ceramics [Art 236], ceramic decoration [Art 237] and supervised study [Art 299].

Expectations and Grading

Enjoy this course, but expect a class requiring a serious commitment and allocation of time.
Expect a relaxed, non-stressed atmosphere where your learning is your responsibility.

Most of class time will be devoted to working on assigned projects. You will need to put in additional time in the studio, or in some cases, working at home as needed to develop skills and complete the projects. The amount of studio time required outside of class will depend on how much work you get done in class. Open studio times will be announced for each semester.

Regular punctuality and attendance is required. Try not to miss any of the demonstrations and lectures that will be given at the beginning of class. Keep a notebook or sketchbook to record ideas and imagery. Make the most of your time while you have this studio available to you. There is no set scheduled break time, take breaks whenever you need. If you must miss a number of class meetings, contact me so that we can work around it.

A majority of your grade depends on enthusiastic on-time completion of projects demonstrating an understanding of the process/technique. You are encouraged to bring personal influences and ideas into your work. Feel free to 'borrow" ideas from books, magazines or online, though creativity and innovation will be generously rewarded. At least 20% of your grade depends on attendance and class participation. This includes studio cleanup and general cooperation with me and with your fellow students. The above percentages are flexible, at my discretion, in that excessive absences will seriously affect your grade, regardless of quantity or quality of work. I will take roll every class At midterm and during final week we will conduct critiques to evaluate and document your progress.

Student Responsibility:

You are responsible for all material covered in every class. Each student is expected to clean up, in a proper manner, at the end of class and after using the studio during open labs. Open labs are a privilege, not a right, and may be revoked at any time.
If you have any special needs or a medical condition I should be aware of, please inform me.
Materials: Clay [ cone 6 - NOT 06 ], Pottery Tools, Plastic bucket, Sponge, Towels, Misc. materials as needed.

 Last updated August 8, 2004 .  Comments to: Webmaster