Ceramics 1

Of which in-class project (Pinch Pots, Coil Pot, Slab Project, Artist Inspired) are you most proud? Why? Please explain and be specific. What did you learn from doing this project ( about yourself as an art maker and/or about the technical process of working with clay)?

The project that I am the most proud of is my summative for the pinch pot unit. For this assignment I decided to make a macaroon jar. There was a lot of trial and error when it came to making this assignment. It also changed a lot where my original design was turtles stacked on top of each other and my end result looked nothing like that. I like how I pushed myself and took the extra time that I needed during study hall to get it done. I think I’m most proud of it because I spent the most time doing it and had the most fun being creative with it. I learned why you can’t work with clay when it’s too wet as well as how to problem solve and be open minded to change.

How has taking this class changed the way you think about ceramics? This could include your own art-making, how you appreciate art, and/or how you might look differently at art in the world around you.

This class has changed the way I think about ceramics by allowing me to be more open minded and observative of others pieces and the thought that went behind them. Our attention to the construction of different pieces helps me to observe more of the little components in my environment whether in general or when looking at other artists' work. I did not realize how quickly things can be assembled and then functionable. I was extremely surprised when my mug went through the dishwasher and didn’t break. I am very glad it’s dishwasher safe and I will have my own little collection when I move out.

What recommendations would you make for ways that the class could be improved (please don’t worry about hurting my feelings- artists learn from, and expect, constructive criticism).

I like the way that the class is run the way it is because you give us plenty of time to be able to problem solve and work through things ourselves. You do however offer help when we do need it so we don’t feel discouraged. You also allow us to be more creative instead of being like you have to make it look like this (ex.) and not allowing us to branch out and have our own unique styles as artists. He even tries to make sure we have good taste in music but having us listen to some throwbacks. One thing that could be added is maybe adding more smoothing techniques if they have any more because that’s something I personally struggle with a lot.