Ceramics: Tableware Design

In this course students will learn methods of making functional ceramic table ware. Using various hand-building techniques we will cover the basic forms of cups, bowls, and plates, then move on to more experimental forms. Primary elements of this course include 3D design, ability to replicate forms, and creation of a cohesive ceramic set. Projects will focus on honing individual style while retaining utility, building on the hallmark of functional ceramics.

Materials for this course will be available for purchase through the Evergreen Bookstore and the Evergreen Ceramic Studio. Students within Olympia will arrange to pick-up materials from campus to transport back home. If a student is located outside of Olympia, or cannot come to campus to pick-up materials, they can choose to have a tool kit shipped to their address. A list of ceramic distributors will also be provided for students to purchase clay in their area. Students will bring completed projects to campus for firing at the end of the quarter and pick them up post-firing. These pick-up and drop-off dates will be scheduled in advance to ensure a safe and manageable timeline in compliance with Covid 19 regulations.

Class will be conducted remotely through weekly zoom meetings that cover demonstrations, discussions, and critiques. Our approach will emphasize participation in synchronous (live) sessions; however, if students find themselves unable to participate due to technology, caregiving obligations, economic disruption, health risk, or illness, they can work with faculty to pursue alternate options to earn related credit.

Students will need access to high-speed internet to participate in synchronous class activities and to access our course Canvas page where class content is posted. Live class sessions will run an estimated 3 hours with an additional hour of office time available with the Faculty. This course requires 5 hours of asynchronous work time outside of class meetings.