Ceramics

Ceramics is the broad category of objects made from clay and hardened by heat. It encompasses pottery, sculpture, tiles, and industrial products. In art classes, ceramics typically refers to clay work that may go beyond traditional pottery into more sculptural territory.

The ceramic process is magical: soft, pliable clay transforms through fire into hard, permanent objects. This transformation has captivated humans for millennia and continues to inspire contemporary artists exploring new forms and techniques.

Ceramic art spans virtually all human cultures. From Chinese porcelain to Greek amphorae to contemporary studio ceramics, clay has been shaped into objects both utilitarian and sublime.

The studio ceramics movement of the 20th century elevated ceramics to fine art status, with artists like Peter Voulkos and Lucie Rie creating pieces valued in museums worldwide. Today's ceramic artists work across a spectrum from functional craft to conceptual art.

Ceramics classes cover similar ground to pottery but may explore more sculptural approaches. You'll learn clay handling, construction techniques, and surface treatment.

Classes typically run 2-3 hours. Pieces need to dry before firing, so you'll usually return in later sessions to glaze and pick up finished work. The process teaches patience—rushing clay work leads to cracks and failures.

Expect to make pieces that don't survive the process, especially early on. This is normal. Each failure teaches you something about the material.