Ceramics: Beyond 2-Dimensional

It’s more than just 2-Dimensional. Ceramics 1A/1B is a year-long sculpting class that allows students to unleash their creativity through modeling clay and design their own 3-Dimensional figures, cups, and masks. The course additionally includes a potter’s wheel for sculpting bowls and vases. 

“In ceramics, you really work with your hands and learn about how fragile and moldable and unique clay is. The focus really is on creating something from start to finish by yourself with your own hands,”said Kiana Van Zanten (12).

The transformation from clay to art is difficult, as it involves many steps, yet the potential risks to the masterpiece in progress are guided with special techniques and a serene environment.

Students often spend one to three weeks preparing and resculpting their desired structure until it’s deemed ready or fit for survival in the end-all kiln, which is the oven that bakes the clay.

They follow this by painting the structure with glass infused paint and end the cycle by firing it again. However, one crack or air bubble in the clay results in an explosion, ultimately ending the lives of the surrounding works of art in the kiln.

“I’ve learned to be patient and to accept defeat because once your piece cracks, your two to three weeks of work is over and I’ve learned to be ok with that,” said Izzy Ruedisueli (11).

Regardless of the risks it entails, Ceramics 1A/1B provides a calm atmosphere to students ready to apply their artistry to the 3-Dimensional world, while meeting the F requirement in the A-G course sequence.

Students looking to join ceramics should be “skillful, coordinated, and have an imagination,” said Lisa Derrington (12).