Ceramics: Fundamentals

Students will gain an overview of ceramic studio practices. They will learn essential hand-building and wheel-throwing techniques. Projects will draw on traditional methods and move toward current ceramic technologies. The course will introduce students to clay types, kiln firing methods, glazing and related surfacing techniques. Presentations on the history and contemporary application of ceramic arts will contextualize studio work. Through their thematic projects students will gain solid foundational skills in both functional and sculptural work. Students will receive critical analysis of their resulting work through written observations and through group discussions.