Art 260 – Basic Ceramics I

Technique assignments

Requirements for this course are the completion of five assigned projects, each project worth one credit. In addition there will be basic exercise/technique assignments in regard to developing dexterity in the handling clay: handbuilding methods including pinch, coil, and slab and accompanying these surface decoration applications including underglaze, glaze, and overglaze. Throwing on the wheel is optional and NOT required. Participation in clay mixing is required. There will be a written mid-term exam and a written final exam.

Exercise-in-technique assignment

A. PINCH pieces (total of 5) as follows: two out of “A”-body studio clay for cone 10 firing, one out of RAKU clay for RAKU firing, one out of Low Fire White clay for underglazing, and one out of Terra Cotta clay for underglazing.

B. COIL: one piece out of any clay.

C. CONSTRUCTED SLAB: one piece out of any clay.

For each of the following projects, a minimum of three distinct and different sketches are required prior to beginning that project. Information to be included with the sketches: dimensions to include length, width, and height (where appropriate) in inches and a written description of the surface to include color, design, smooth or textured, and finish (mat, satin, or gloss).

1. DRINKING VESSEL – to design and execute in clay a ‘personal’ drinking vessel, i.e. mug, cup, stein, glass, goblet, rhyton, etc. It may be functional/utilitarian or it may be sculptural or conceptual or it may fall somewhere in between like ‘palaceware.’ Sketches are due by the fourth class meeting, and the complete project is due during the fifth week for a group critique (midterm)

2. 2-D…to design and execute in clay a basically two dimensional (flat) object, functional or non-functional, whereas the primary emphasis is on surface embellishment. Minimum dimension across for any shape is 12 inches. Sketches will be due one week after the 2-D slide lecture and the complete project will be due at the end of the quarter.

3. 3-D…to design and execute in clay a three dimensional utilitarian or sculptural object using any construction technique or combination of techniques where the primary emphasis is on form/shape. The minimum dimension is 12 inches unless otherwise approved by the instructor. Sketches are due within one week after the 3-D slide lecture. The completed project will be due at the end of the quarter.

4. MYSTERY??? You’ll find out during midterm week. The completed project is due at the end of the quarter.

5. FINAL PROJECT…or “knock-my(Lars’)-socks-off.” This project demonstrates your absolute skill/dexterity/facility with clay form and surface in terms of personal development/style, imagination/creativity, and execution/craftsmanship. May be functional, sculptural, or in-between. Sketches are due by the end of the 7^th week. As an alternative, you may opt for a “self-portrait” in clay. Due at the end of the quarter.

A group critique of all five projects, including exercise-in-technique assignments will occur during final’s week. Attendance/participation is mandatory.