Ceramic Decoration Techniques – From cuneiform to Picasso

Description

Clay offers a wide range of choices for the decoration of its surface. Timeless ceramic techniques have been passed down to us through the ages, still waiting to be developed and adapted to the modern style.

A constantly emerging issue is the relation between form and decoration; a relation which is indeed complicated from the very beginning. Because, although some techniques may be well within our capabilities, it is hard to know what we have achieved until the object we made comes out of the kiln.

Ceramic decoration begins with the creation of the mold.

Course Objectives.

The presentation of basic decorative techniques and their application on completed objects.

Basic Modules
1. Clay coloring.
Thanks to current technology, we are equipped with exceptional kinds of clay that we can choose for our works of art. Still, there are always opportunities for our own experimentations that will fulfill our personal aesthetic intention. In this module, we make clay samples which we will use for the creation of our own works of art.

2. Clay textures.
Traces and impressions. Clay and plaster seals.

In this module, decoration begins with the creation of the mold.

We will create clay samples that will be mixed with other materials, organic or inorganic, so as to create unique surfaces and textures.

Engobes and their use in decoration. Developing the sgraffito, Mocca diffusion and melted wax techniques.

In this unit we will focus on engobes and their evolution through the ages. (Terra sigilatta , slips and engobes)

Notes and bibliography will be provided for every unit covered, while presentations will be accompanied by visual aids.