Mission & Goals
Mission
The Ceramics concentration offers a progressive exploration of the malleable medium of clay. From forming and finishing techniques, building, loading and firing kilns, the science of clays and glazes and an ongoing exploration of historical and contemporary significance of clay in the world of art, traditional and contemporary as well as functional and sculptural approaches to this medium are supported. Students complete the program with significant knowledge and experience to pursue quality professional level work.
Goals
- To offer an individual level course that exposes students within and outside the concentration an adequate foundation in a three-dimensional area.
- To offer a range of sequentially developed coursework that offers a suitable range of processes and approaches to medium.
- To encourage an understanding of relevance of clay in material culture and its significance in the ongoing history of art.
- To expect all students to participate in all aspects of the studio practice from clay and glaze formation to loading firing kilns.
- Students will leave with a solid understanding and working knowledge of studio practices.
- To build a community that offers support, leadership, academic excellence and artistic challenge to all involved.
Objectives
- Through regular course offerings in handbuilding, wheelwork, clay and glaze chemistry as well as kiln design and building. Course content involves not only technique and skill building but historical reference and technical development.
- The Design Elements are a core guide to assisting students through their progression of coursework.
- A progression of student involvement in studio practices is designed to not only encourage but expect student participation.
- Throughout the studio practices, students explore a variety of working methodologies, styles and techniques to develop a personal process that allows them to excel during college and apply those skills in their chosen field.
