SYLLABUS

ART 303,403

CERAMICS

BARBARA PATTEN STARR

Some musings about what we might do this semester. Read, ponder, consider creatively, let’s discuss and then let’s draw up plans and some dates. Can/should we occasionally meet outside the time set for Ceramics I?

1. Develop a work of a series of works based on an organic form or forms. (One student did

a semester’s work based on the forms of undersea creatures.) Consider botanical forms.

2. Use the work of another artist/group of artists as a resource for your work indicating aspects of the work that you find interesting/appealing. Create a work/series of works growing from these ideas and taking them to the next level. (Note: See research paper listed below. You may want to springboard from that. You need not be limited to ceramic artists for this project, though. I can imagine even using the work of poets as inspiration.)

3. Create a modular series (pieces that work together as a group.) This may be either functional or sculptural.

4. Write a brief report on different methods of ceramic surface decoration and create a tile to I llustrate each.

5. Develop one or more sources of ceramic ideas. Create a work using each. Write a brief paper describing the source of your ideas and trace its evolution as you work.

There is probably more that a semester’s worth of work here. You should probably shoot for 5-6 major pieces of work for the semester, more or less depending on size and complexity. Sometimes working in series allows you to explore ideas in greater depth and to finish more pieces in less time. Sift through the ideas above and feel free to come up with any of your own. My interest is in a challenging and engaging semester’s work for each of you. You do not have to be working on the same topics. I would, however, like to aim for the same deadlines if we can. Spend an hour today talking among yourselves, thinking, and we will talk together during the last 45 minutes of class. I would like to have a written plan from each of you by next class period. I also have some additional materials I can prepare for you, depending on what you choose.

DATES OF NOTE:

TEST: CH. 1-4, Stages of plasticity

RESEARCH PAPER DUE - A brief (3-5 pp.) typed paper on an individual ceramic artist or group of artists, an historic/contemporary style or technique, a trend in ceramics today, etc.

TEST: Reading, inclusive

There will also be 3 reflection papers due, with due dates to be established.