Ceramics Fundamentals

Ceramic Materials - Gain a comprehensive understanding of the nature and properties of clay, glazes, and other ceramic materials.
Hand Building Techniques - These include methods such as coiling, slab building, pinching, and hollowing for creating both functional and sculptural works.
Wheel Throwing - This complex process can create symmetrical ceramic pieces like bowls, plates, and vases. It requires a combination of firm pressure and careful movement.
Sculpting Ceramics - Understand the many ways to model, carve and shape clay to create detailed, dynamic figures or objects.

Ceramic Decoration Techniques

Glazing - Familiarize yourself with different types of glazes and their effects. Understand the use of underglazes, overglazes, multiple glazing, and sponging.
Slip Trailing - This involves applying liquid clay (slip) in a controlled manner to create raised decorative patterns on a ceramic piece.
Sgraffito - This technique involves scratching through a surface layer of coloured slip to reveal the clay body beneath, creating contrast in your designs.
Inlay - A method by which different coloured clays are inlaid into sections of the ceramic work to create a pattern.

Understanding Ceramic Styles and Techniques Across Histories and Cultures - Different regions and eras have unique ceramic traditions, from ancient Greek pottery to modern studio pottery.
Historically Influential Ceramic Artists - Identify and study the techniques employed by masters such as Bernard Leach, Lucie Rie, and Hans Coper.
Interpretation and Analysis of Ceramic Forms - Understand how to analyse the form, function, decoration, and craftsmanship of a ceramic piece in relation to its historical and cultural context.
Impact of Ceramic Tradition on Modern Practices - Modern ceramics are influenced by and play off historical techniques. Grasp the continuation and divergence from these traditions in contemporary ceramics.

Experiment with Form and Technique - Use knowledge of the above techniques to inform your own work. Explore variations and combinations of techniques to create unique ceramic pieces.
Studio Safety - Understand the safety protocols necessary when working with ceramics. Include kiln safety, carcinogenic materials handling, and proper cleanup procedures.
Kiln Firing Process - Learn about the process of bisque and glaze firings. Understand the differences between oxidation and reduction firings, as well as the effects of varying temperature and atmosphere.
Critique and Reflection - Develop the ability to evaluate and reflect on your own ceramic works, as well as the works of others. Practice giving and receiving constructive criticism.