Revised 08/25

ART 153 - Ceramics - Handbuilding I (3 CR.)

Course Description

Introduces a variety of ceramic handbuilding techniques utilized to design and produce ceramic arts. Includes an introduction to clay, glazes and kilns. Part I of II. Lecture 1 hour. Studio instruction 4 hours. Total 5 hours per week.

General Course Purpose

The purpose of the ceramic course is to introduce the student to the various techniques utilized in studio ceramics, to make the student aware of relationships between the artist potter and ceramic industry, and to prepare the student for further study in ceramics. Emphasis will be on craftsmanship and creativity with special attention given to total concept from idea to finished product. This is a studio option under the AFA in Visual Arts. It is the beginning of the first-year sequence of Ceramic Handbuilding I-II.

Course Prerequisites/Corequisites

A basic understanding of three-dimensional form is recommended.

Course Objectives

  • Upon completing the course, the student will be able to: Communication/Critical Thinking

    • Use media-specific terminology to critique and evaluate both concept sketches and
    • completed
    • Demonstrate attention to the entire process from concept to final

     Composition

    • Demonstrate creativity in activating three-dimensional
    • Begin to explore students’ individual

     Technique

    • Demonstrate technical skills and craftsmanship through the correct handling of materials and tools.
    • Explore the stages of clay including understanding bisque and glaze

     Cultural Understanding

    • Identify precedents of traditional, historical, and contemporary ceramic

     Pinch, Coil and Slab and Solid building Techniques

    • Investigate the variety of forms that can be created with these ancient methods of ceramic construction.

     Composition

    • Explore traditional and contemporary building methods and forms to create work that expresses individual style.

    Critique

    • Utilize media-specific terminology to critique and evaluate

    Conceptual Intent

    • Use traditional, historical or contemporary examples of ceramics as the basis for in-class exploration of forms.

Major Topics to Be Included

  • Pinching Techniques
  • Coil Building Techniques
  • Slab Building Techniques
  • Solid Building Techniques

Optional Topics

  • Introduction to wheel throwing