Ceramics l

1. Of which in-class project (Pinch Pots, Coil Pot, Slab Project) are you most proud? Why? Please explain and be specific. What did you learn from doing this project?

In my ceramics I class, my favorite unit was the slab pot project. More specifically, the project I am most proud of was my large fruit bowl shown above. It was definitely the hardest pot I made in this class, but it was also the most rewarding. I used the slanted side tool to make the sides slant outward. Because the bowl was so big, I learned I had to wait for the clay to harden up for a bit or it would move. These two tools were very useful in the other slab pots I made.

2. 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.

I honestly didn't understand all the thought behind mugs and bowls. The special tools that were used, the different techniques were all new to me. Also, the amount of planning and designing that goes into handmade pots changed by an appreciation for handmade ceramics. I walked into a store a couple of days ago and saw some handmade mugs, and I was so proud that I could identify that they were made using the slab techniques. Things like this are why I am so glad I took this ceramics class.

3. 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).

Obviously, this year was quite normal because of covid so I didn't really get the whole experience. I was really excited to do the historic unit, but because of time, we didn't get to that. (not that you could have done anything, it was just the pandemic) this class was my absolute favorite, I always looked forward to it at the end of the day. The only thing I would complain about was the long instructions. when demonstrating how to make each technique, I was really excited to get working, but we would all usually sit and watch for 30 minutes before we could start.