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Fine Arts · MS elective · 3 credit hours · 16 sessions

Clay Advanced Techniques

This advanced studio course pushes the boundaries of ceramics beyond functional pottery. Students will explore complex construction methods, surface chemistry, and atmospheric firing. The curriculum focuses on large-scale hand building, advanced wheel throwing (composite forms), and the science of glaze calculation to create work that is both structurally ambitious and aesthetically distinct.

§ 01 By the end you can
  1. Master advanced throwing: Lidded vessels, Teapots, and Sectional throwing
  2. Execute large-scale hand building using coil and slab engineering
  3. Understand Glaze Chemistry: Fluxes, Stabilizers, and Colorants
  4. Explore atmospheric firing: Raku, Soda, or Saggar firing techniques
  5. Develop a personal aesthetic language in clay form and surface
§ 02 Sixteen sessions

The whole semester.

  1. 01Advanced Clay Bodies: Porcelain vs. Stoneware
  2. 02Wheel Throwing I: Lids & Galleries
  3. 03Wheel Throwing II: Spouts & Handles
  4. 04Sectional Throwing: Tall Forms
  5. 05Altering Thrown Forms
  6. 06Large Scale Hand Building: Internal Armatures
  7. 07Sculptural Ceramics: Abstract Form
  8. 08 · MidtermMidterm Examination
  9. 09Glaze Chemistry I: The Unity Molecular Formula
  10. 10Glaze Chemistry II: Testing & Coloring
  11. 11Surface Decoration: Slips, Engobes, & Sgraffito
  12. 12Atmospheric Firing: Raku Workshop
  13. 13Mold Making & Slip Casting Basics
  14. 14Kiln Management: Loading & Firing Schedules
  15. 15Post-Firing Techniques: Lusters & Decals
  16. 16Final Project: The Ceramic Series Exhibition

Midterm around session 8. Final project briefed at session 8 or 9 and developed in stages until the juries.

§ 03 Final project

Final Project: The Ceramic Series Exhibition

How it’s judged

Recommended reading
  1. The Potter's Book by Bernard Leach
  2. Glazes for the Craft Potter by Harry Fraser
  3. Hands in Clay by Charlotte F. Speight
  4. Functional Pottery by Robin Hopper
  5. Ceramics: A Potter's Handbook by Glenn C. Nelson
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