Throughout history, economic needs, material desires, and political ambitions have brought people from different cultures and communities into contact, sometimes across great distances. This is called cultural diffusion, in other words when different cultures are spread into different areas and there is a mixing or blending of different ideas, beliefs, traditions and innovations from one group to another. 

Whether clashes or cooperative endeavors, these convergences have brought about the exchange of knowledge and ideas. 

In the visual arts, cultural diffusion has led to creative juxtapositions, hybrid styles, innovative forms, and the reinterpretation of traditional signs and symbols.

Throughout this course, students will investigate how cultures converge to create new 3D forms of art. They will focus on the exploration and development of fundamental ceramic processes, with equal emphasis on hand-building and wheel throwing. While hand-building, the technical focus is on pinch, coil, and slab methods. While throwing, primary forms are explored. Basic glazing and firing techniques are also presented. Historical and contemporary examples, aesthetics, and 3D design principles will be explored. Students complete the unit by researching their unique cultural convergences, planning an artistic intention for their work, and creating a hybrid ceramic dinnerware set that combines the traditions of two distinct cultures. 

Discussion topic: What causes cross-cultural fertilization?

(Cultures inspire each other when they meet)