Ceramics
The Ceramics program builds on the foundations of art elements and principles of design. Students learn to look at making three dimensional clay art as an opportunity to investigate form and function in sculpture, architecture, jewelry, and functional ware.
Clay is the material through which students can express their thoughts and feelings, as well as create innovations that can improve our world.
Upper School
Students have the option of taking up to six semesters of Ceramics after finishing Art Appreciation or Art 1. The progression of Ceramics studies evolves from hand building, coiling, extruding, slab rolling, and hand-shaping, to working on the potter’s wheel.
Students research glaze recipes and experience hands-on glaze-making for classroom use. Sustainability is key to the Ceramics program, therefore, one important component is the recycling of used clay that can be regenerated into usable clay. Students research artists who work in 3D art, and advanced students learn ceramic repair, multiple piece and component structures, alternative firing techniques, and mixed media constructions. Ceramics course requirements include keeping a visual journal throughout the semester, visiting three off campus galleries or museums, and participating in the once-per-semester outside raku firing.