Functional Ceramics

As the semester progresses students are asked more and more to demonstrate how they can creatively combine the foundational handbuilding techniques they learned in the first couple of projects. Diving into functional ceramics students are faced with a lot of problem solving as they consider how to combine function and aesthetics.

This beginning unit is an exercise to work towards mastering the foundational handbuilding techniques they have already been introduced to through constructing vases or vessels.

• Pinching,

• Slab building,

• Coiling,

But before students even begin building they are asked to look at classical Grecian pottery and consider the function and influences of pottery that have shaped art history. As we break down forms from classical work students begin to develop ideas for their own vases. Together we break down the “anatomy of a vase” and explore how different parts may be constructed through bite size demos and handouts. With every step students are provided with live demos as well as written and illustrated handouts. In some circumstances students are also provided with templates that display how different shapes can be slab-built.

After fully constructing their forms students are introduced to a decorative technique called underglazing. Underglaze is applied before the clay is fired which makes achieving crisp lines and vibrant colors easier. This means it requires students to plan out their designs and work with close attention to detail. As they engage in this step of designing their vessel they are supplied with multiple planning sheets and warm up activities to generate how decoration on a vase can be made more personal or applicable to function.