New and Updated Course Descriptions

ART 140 - Ceramics - Handbuilding

3 Credits

This course introduces students to the fundamental techniques, materials, and concepts of handbuilding with clay. Through guided projects and demonstrations, students will explore methods such as pinch, coil, and slab construction, as well as a variety of surface design and glazing techniques. Emphasis will be placed on craftsmanship, experimentation, and creative problem solving, while also considering the historical and cultural traditions of ceramics. Students will develop both technical proficiency and personal artistic expression through the completion of functional and sculptural ceramic works. No prior experience required.

New SUNY General Education:
SUNY - Arts

Course Learning Outcomes
1.Create ceramic pieces using hand-building techniques that meet structural and aesthetic criteria.
2.Demonstrate proficiency in surface design methods, including glazing and texturing, to produce visually cohesive ceramic pieces.
3.Identify and describe the stages of clay and the processes involved in ceramic production (from raw clay to finished piece).
4.Analyze the formal, functional, and conceptual qualities of ceramic works during critiques.
5.Interpret the cultural and historical significance of ceramics across diverse traditions.
6.Create original ceramic works that reflect both technical proficiency and personal artistic exploration.

Course Offered Fall, Spring