For this unit we will be exploring a combination of tools, techniques and decorative processes while combining hand building techniques of coiling, extruding, slumping, slabs, with wheel thrown elements.
Coiling = the process of rolling clay into a long rope like form. Coiling is a method of creating pottery. It has been used to shape clay into vessels for many thousands of years. It ranges from Africa to Greece and from China to New Mexico. They have used this method in a variety of ways.
Extruding = the process of shaping a material (such as clay, metal or plastic) by forcing it through a die.
Slumping = the process of shaping clay slabs by laying them over a from
Slab construction = Slab Method - A method of making pottery by which a thick, flat plate, or slice, of clay is cut into shapes which then are joined to form an object. The joined edges are scored and then slip is used to fuse the pieces together.
Slip = Clay diluted with water to the consistency of cream, used for joining pieces of clay.
Coiling = the process of rolling clay into a long rope like form. Coiling is a method of creating pottery. It has been used to shape clay into vessels for many thousands of years. It ranges from Africa to Greece and from China to New Mexico. They have used this method in a variety of ways.
Extruding = the process of shaping a material (such as clay, metal or plastic) by forcing it through a die.
Slumping = the process of shaping clay slabs by laying them over a from
Slab construction = Slab Method - A method of making pottery by which a thick, flat plate, or slice, of clay is cut into shapes which then are joined to form an object. The joined edges are scored and then slip is used to fuse the pieces together.
Slip = Clay diluted with water to the consistency of cream, used for joining pieces of clay.
A Theme, Perhaps?
Could the ceramic art you create portray a theme? How do artists communicate a message through their visual creations?
Pick a theme for your vase/vessel. Here are some possible suggestions:
Pick a theme for your vase/vessel. Here are some possible suggestions:
- Figurative - human form, hands, feet, noses, etc
- Nature - forest, landscape, ice caps, oceanic, mountainous, etc.
- Mechanical - pipes, screws, bolts, metal, etc.
- Fantasy - made up symbols, characters, forms, etc.
- Geometric / minimalist - shapes, lines, etc.
- What other ideas can you come up with?
Patterned Coil Vase Examples
Project Criteria
- Vase must have a unique form. Go beyond the basic cylinder.
- Vase must have a NECK and FOOT.
- Vase must depict an understanding of pattern, emphasis, motif, and form.
- Vase must be at least 12" in height. Include 18% shrinkage factor for stoneware.
- Vase must show an understanding of finishing/decorating technique with applied iron oxide stain and glaze.
- Vase must show a utilization of the extruder, slab table, and slump plaster molds.
- Vase must utilize both slabs and coils.
- GET CREATIVE!
