Beginning Wheel Throwing
CER2107.01
Course Description
Summary
This class is an introduction to using the potter鈥檚 wheel as a tool for generating clay forms, emphasizing pottery making. While focusing on throwing skills, students will explore various possibilities for assembling wheel-thrown elements and experiment with functional and non-functional formats. Students will be introduced to the ceramic process from wet working to glazing and firing. Historical and contemporary ceramic vessels will be shown and discussed; this general survey of ceramics will include many cultures and periods. Beginning Wheel Throwing is a physical class; students must lift 25 lbs. of clay regularly. Please note that this course will require additional materials to be purchased by the student.
Learning Outcomes
- Use the potter's wheel as a tool for making and exploring forms in space.
Be familiar with clay's material nature, including its working and drying properties and the glazing and firing processes.
Have been introduced to the facilities in the ceramics area: glaze room, kiln room, throwing space and have the ability to use those spaces safely.
To become more comfortable with and capable of discussing the ideas present in your work and others' work.
Have a basic overview of the history of ceramics and a survey of contemporary practices.
Articulate what the ceramic process has taught you about yourself as a maker and problem solver.