ART06095 2019 Ceramics 1: Introduction to Clay Origins, Processes and Surface Treatments.

The primary aim of this module is to enable the student to establish a basic visual fluency via the medium of Clay in order to allow them to begin to express their works concerns within that of a Fine Art context. Essential to their engagement is a fundamental understanding as to the source of their materials, the clays origins and the early formation of their mineral compounds; ultimately they become more aware as to where in their landscape these compounds can be found, while also learning more about the geological dynamics that created such processes. It is through this understanding that students become grounded within their creative practice, helping to cultivate those vital early connections to their external landscape. Now better aware of their materials source, the students are introduced to set range of basic hand-building skills and techniques, alongside a fundamental introduction to colour treatments and glazes. They begin to establish a basic familiarity with how a glaze behaves, the nature of how it relates to the clay surface and a variety of colour treatments. It is with these early efforts that we begin to see glimpses of the students individual concerns and their burgeoning visual artistic vocabulary.

Handbuilding with clay offers a unique opportunity to experiment, requiring few tools, and allowing intuition and imagination to come to the fore. In this overview of a fast-developing practice, artist Claire Loder explains time-honoured methods of handbuilding, as well as introducing the fascinating new approaches of contemporary ceramicists.The basic techniques, from coiling and pinching to working with slabs, are explained with practical instructions and helpful accompanying images. Equipment, clay bodies and studio advice are thoroughly covered. Through the work of today's makers, the book then looks at new methods of building by hand, including mixed media work, sculptural methods, vessels and surface decoration, illuminating a wide variety of forms and styles.Sculpting and Handbuilding is an essential guide for any ceramic artist or student wishing to learn the basics of handbuilding, or seeking inspiration to integrate and adapt conventional methods.

While most surveys of contemporary art focus largely on two-dimensional work, there is a growing movement of emerging as well as established artists that are producing work in the ceramic medium. The New Age of Ceramics documents that movement; accross 180 illustrations it showcases a story of the art world redefining what was previously considered 'craft' rather than art.

In Handbuilt, A Potter's Guide, pottery expert Melissa Weiss shows you the basics of crafting without a wheel, how to harvest and work wild clay, and using natural glazes. Handbuilt pottery is the perfect way for new potters to dive into this unique medium because it doesn't require access to a potter's wheel. In Handbuilt, A Potter's Guide, Melissa Weiss takes an organic approach to harvesting and working with local clays, and even shows you how to mix your own glazes to use on functional pottery for use at home. Students of pottery the world over have traveled to North Carolina to attend Weiss's classes. Now you don't have to! In this book, Melissa provides you with a solid course on slab and pinch-pot techniques that allow beginning students to master the basics and progress through finished wares. Looking to go a little deeper? Melissa also offers her unique knowledge of how to dig and process local clays for use in pottery, and for the techniques she has developed for creating unique glazes with ash, salt, and other dry materials. Melissa will also introduce you talented contemporary potters, who will share their work, tips, advice, and techniques. Learn the basics of handbuilding and more with this engaging guide.

A stimulating and inspiring exploration of creative approaches to visual expression: a sourcebook of ideas and images.

This book is a look at coiled pottery with both historical examples and descriptions of the methods of contemporary and ethnic potters who build in this way. It also discusses different approaches to making and decorating, as well as aesthetic qualities of the work. In this colour edition, the author has brought the contemporary section up to date and included many new colour photographs throughout the book. This is the classic book on the subject and it should appeal not only to potters but to anyone interested in the history of art and cultural studies.

The international ceramics scene is enjoying the highest profile it has had for many years. Breaking the Mould looks at ceramic artists working within this versatile medium. Drawing on the rich history of pottery these artists are pushing the techniques, objectives and perceptions of the medium into new, exciting territory. The book profiles the work of over 70 ceramicists, including Suzanne King, Simon Fell, Grayson Perry, Barnaby Barford, Carina Ciscato and Amy Houghton. Their work ranges from interpretations of utilitarian pots, to abstract sculpture and a revisioning of kitch porcelain ornaments, all of which are brought to life in beautiful colour reproductions. Essays by prolific makers and academics look at the history and inspirations behind the medium today. Following in the footsteps of New Directions in Jewellery, Fashioning Fabrics and The Cutting Edge of Wallpaper, Breaking the Mould is a definitive overview of a craft scene that is simultaneously building upon and breaking with its roots, and in doing so creating a brave new future for itself.

This book aims to provide a wealth of visual imagery for ideas and inspiration. This collection of amazing images has been gathered over the last 10 years, showing details of surface textures of everything from rust and wood to lichen and old sails, and has been divided up into themes to make it more accessible. The author has captured fascinating aspects of both natural and man-made things otherwise overlooked, showing the reader their hidden qualities. Elements of skips, old paint, driftwood and stone walls from around the world all contribute to a range of beautiful patterns and samples which make up this selection of photographs. Every surface tells a story and these beautiful images provide a visual sourcebook for artists from all areas of the Visual Arts.

This key text includes individual artists within the field of installation and sculpture as well as those incorporating new technologies. The artists are divided by theme, with each chapter giving a short introduction, and then going on to display the work and ideas of each, showing the very innovative and diverse range of work being made today. A chapter is also included on making methods, giving a glimpse behind the scenes at some of the amalgamation of techniques used to create each piece.

This is a new, revised and updated version of Brian Sutherland's classic book on making glazes from natural sources. It is essentially a practical book that deals with locating your own glaze materials, and how to construct, test and use the glazes you create. Rock types and likely sources of supply, making test pieces, the use of blend systems and the Seger system are all fully discussed. The emphasis is always on careful planning and control which ensures results are repeatable. This makes the science behind making glazes from natural sources both understandable and feasible.

Ceramic Review

Art and Perception

Ceramics Ireland

Visual Artists Ireland Newsletter

www.pulsceramics.com

www.ceramics.org.uk

www.fifav.fr

www.micice.es

www.kitsa.org

www.parcoursceramiquecarougeois.ch

www.triennale-spiez.ch

www.cpaceramics.com

A selection of DVD's on the lives and works of a variety of relevant Artists....

Students are encouraged to seek Workplacement / Internships/ Scholarships or any work experience in the visual arts. This 'real life' engagement provides an invaluable context for their ongoing learning.