Course Catalog Ceramics
Ceramics: Architectonic Clay + Ceramic Sculpture CER 250-350-450
Ceramics: Table for Two: Evolving Rituals of Food CER 252-352-452
This course will focus on creating works of ceramic sculpture and ceramic works that will be presented on the wall, floor or used as an architectural element or ornament such as public and domestic art projects and tile projects. We will cover basic ceramic fabrication to include, Large scale work in clay, The use of ceramic materials and construction techniques to create sculpture, tile making, press molding, use of the extruder, glazing and firing of gas and electric kilns. Lectures will include historical and contemporary works. Projects will include architecture based work for domestic and public formats, experimental unfired solutions and two dimensional pattern and design work, ceramic surface development, and all Ceramic traditions, which address subject matter outside of domestic utility. Clay is an easily accessible material that makes it ideal for creating both figurative and abstract works in any scale. The course will include some research and testing of sculpture bodies and surfaces. Course requirements: Some clay working experience (high school, college level, or equivalent) It would be valuable to students in Ceramics, Glass, Metals, Design, Interiors and sculpture, painting, and drawing. Some clay working experience suggested. See Ceramics: 241, 341, 441: Introduction to three-dimensional plastic media. 3 credits.
We will focus on the human experience of eating, and the rituals and modes of communication involving community, food and drink. The potter’s wheel will be our primary means of fabrication for the creation of objects, parts and multiples. Glaze formulation, surface techniques and firing of kilns will be incorporated in this class. Required of all Ceramic Majors. Open to all. 3 credits.
Ceramics: Nature/Structure CER 251-351-451 In this class we will be looking to nature for inspiration. The natural world and its infinite structures, patterns, and phenomena are an inexhaustible source for visual artists. We will make use of this vast resource, bringing traces of what can be discovered and integrated into our clay work. Both form and surface will be studied and utilized and we will learn to fire a variety of kilns. There will be lectures on contemporary and historical art and design in clay. Required of all Ceramic Majors. Open to all. 3 credits.
Ceramics: Internship CER 399-499 Elective credit can be given on a case-bycase basis for student internships developed through the career services office, with advance permission of instructor and department Chair.
Ceramics: Vessel Utility CER 253-353-453 This course will investigate the historical and contemporary forms of the ceramic vessel/ pot. The dual nature of works that function, as receptacles for meaning and narrative as well as domestic work for the table or presentation will be researched. Construction techniques to be covered will include hand building and the potter’s wheel along with a variety of surface treatments and firing methods. Open to all. 3 credits.
Ceramics: Surface + Form CER 255-355-455 Students will work on assigned and self-proposed projects which explore the ceramic surface in relationship to two and three-dimensional form. Concepts and critical theory will be addressed. Lectures will discuss historical and contemporary art and design history. Previous clay working experience required. 3 credits.
Ceramics: Monumental Ceramics CER 260X-360X-460X We will explore the fabrication of large scale, hand-built structures and vessels. Ceramic history, surface considerations and non-traditional finishing techniques will be utilized. The class will address drawing and mark making in relation to mass and volume. Clay in various forms, fired and unfired, will be investigated to problem solve and create large-scale clay tiles, relief work, murals, multiples and installations. Some previous clay experience is required. Open to all. 3 credits.
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