Ceramic Art and Production Techniques
Clay Body Selection and Preparation
Details on different clay types (e.g., earthenware, stoneware, porcelain), their properties (e.g., plasticity, firing temperature), and methods of preparation including wedging, pugging, and slurry mixing for recycling.
Forming Methods
- Hand-building Techniques:
- Pinch Pot: Description of the technique and its applications.
- Coil Building: Description of the technique, emphasizing jointing and shaping.
- Slab Construction: Description of the technique, including slab rolling and assembly.
- Wheel Throwing:
- Centering: Explanation of the centering process.
- Opening: Explanation of the opening process.
- Pulling: Explanation of the pulling process.
- Shaping: Explanation of the shaping process.
- Slip Casting: Description of the process, mold preparation, and slip formulation.
Surface Decoration
Methods for adding decoration to the surface of ceramic pieces, including:
- Underglazes: Application techniques and considerations.
- Overglazes: Application techniques and considerations.
- Glazes: Types of glazes (e.g., clear, opaque, matte, glossy), application methods (e.g., dipping, brushing, spraying), and safety precautions.
- Textural Techniques: Carving, impressing, and adding texture to the clay surface.
Firing Processes
Description of various firing methods and kiln types:
- Electric Kilns: Operation, programming, and safety considerations.
- Gas Kilns: Operation, atmospheric control (oxidation/reduction), and safety considerations.
- Raku Firing: Description of the raku process and its unique effects.
- Wood Firing: Description of the wood firing process.
Glaze Chemistry and Application
Explanation of glaze components (silica, alumina, flux), their roles, and glaze calculation principles. Discussion of glaze defects (crazing, shivering, pinholing) and troubleshooting techniques. Safe handling and application practices, including proper ventilation and personal protective equipment.
Tools and Equipment
Description of essential tools such as: wedging table, pottery wheel, banding wheel, various sculpting tools, sponges, brushes, calipers, and safety gear.