Description
Handbuilding with Clay will give students the skills necessary to produce, glaze, and fire a variety of ceramic forms. Commonly used ceramic construction and surfacing techniques will be covered, including but not limited to a variety of slab construction methods, the production and use of press molds, and the fabrication of handheld tools for the forming, texture, and coloration of ceramic works. Through presentations, access to the Teaching Collection, and field trips, students will gain a greater awareness of how these different forming methodologies have enabled ceramic artists to create meaningful works of art for centuries. Students will have the opportunity to explore both functional and sculptural applications of the ceramic material in this course. Ceramic surface and appropriate finishing techniques will be covered. Students are encouraged to bring their own research and interests into the coursework. Prior experience in ceramics is not required to enroll in the course.