Ceramics

Curriculum Guide

• 2019-20 Ceramics Checksheet;  Sample 4-Year Plan
• Course Descriptions
• For curriculum guides previous to 2019-20, please email your academic advisor or visit the main art office.

Faculty

Jessika Edgar MFA, Cranbrook, Assistant Professor and Area Coordinaror in Ceramics

Program description:

Advocates a diversity of technical and aesthetic approaches within the context of contemporary ceramics. The program and course of instruction emphasizes craftsmanship, a strong work ethic, artistic research and critical thinking. Graduate students are directed toward a vibrant exploration of individualism, studio involvement and are encouraged to explore both historical and contemporary ideas in all media.

What will I study?

• To train students to express themselves in clay media with emphasis on three-dimensional forms.
• To be able to conceptualize ideas and emotions and translate these into finished objects.
• To approach clay media as traditional art form as well as a vehicle for contemporary artistic expression.
• To acquire skills necessary for the effective use of basic tools and techniques.
• To understand and manipulate clays, glazes, and firing techniques.
• To develop knowledge of the history of the clay medium and its importance in the history of art.
• To become familiar with the fundamentals of professional studio management and business approaches and issues.
• To be aware of essential skills and attitudes necessary for admission to graduate programs in clay ceramics, including portfolio and resume development techniques.

What makes this program unique?

Main Studio – (1500 sq. ft.)

Foundation and Introductory Courses

12 electric potters wheels

Brent slab roller

Bailey extruder

Glaze Area – (250 sq. ft.)M

Paache walk-in spray booth

Alpine formulating tables

Clay Mixing Area – (150 sq. ft.)

Soldner Pro. Mixer

Dough Mixer

Kiln Room – (300 sq. ft.)

3 – 7 cu.ft. Evenheat kilns

1 – 14 cu.ft. Evenheat oval kiln

1 – 3 cu.ft. test kiln

1 – 24 cu.ft. Bailey front loading electric kiln

Adjunct Studio – (1400 sq. ft.)

Semi-private individual studios for ceramics majors and graduate students.

Randall, Bailey and Soldner potters wheels.

Various work tables and storage areas.

Window Gallery

Foundry Annex Studio – (1500 sq. ft.)

Serving graduate students and undergraduate majors utilizing gas reduction and Raku firing processes.

3 potters wheels

Various work tables

Glazing area

50 cu.ft. Gas reduction kiln

Several Raku kilns and pit firing area

What can you do with a degree in Ceramics?