Sculpture and Ceramics Practices I

Description:

The Sculpture and Ceramics Practices I module introduces students to the fundamental principles, techniques, and materials used in sculpture and ceramics. This module provides a strong foundation in three-dimensional design, focusing on both traditional and contemporary approaches to modeling, carving, assembling, and ceramics production.

Students will explore various materials such as clay, wood, plaster, metal, and mixed media, gaining hands-on experience in forming, shaping, and finishing sculptural and ceramic pieces. The module covers essential construction techniques, including hand-building, wheel-throwing, casting, and surface decoration in ceramics, as well as additive and subtractive methods in sculpture.

In addition to technical skill development, this module encourages students to develop their creativity and conceptual thinking, enabling them to create expressive and functional works. Students will also study historical and contemporary practices in sculpture and ceramics, gaining an appreciation of how these art forms have evolved over time.

Key Areas of Study:

  • Introduction to basic sculpting techniques (modeling, carving, assembling, casting)

  • Fundamental ceramic techniques (hand-building, wheel-throwing, glazing, firing)

  • Exploration of materials such as clay, wood, plaster, metal, and found objects

  • Understanding form, texture, space, and composition in three-dimensional art

  • Surface treatment and glaze applications in ceramic works

  • Introduction to historical and contemporary trends in sculpture and ceramics

  • Safe handling and use of tools, equipment, and materials in sculptural and ceramic processes

By the end of this module, students will have developed technical proficiency, creative problem-solving skills, and a conceptual understanding of sculpture and ceramics. This module provides a foundation for further exploration in three-dimensional art and prepares students for advanced studies or professional practice in fine arts, design, and crafts.

Course code: BIAD 1304 

Course credit: 10

Pre-requisites: None

Academic year: 2024-2025

Lecturer: 

Course Objectives:

By the end of this module, students should be able to:

  1. Understand and apply fundamental sculpting techniques, including modeling, carving, assembling, and casting.

  2. Demonstrate proficiency in basic ceramic techniques, such as hand-building, wheel-throwing, glazing, and firing.

  3. Explore a variety of materials, including clay, wood, plaster, metal, and found objects, in the creation of three-dimensional works.

  4. Develop a strong sense of form, texture, balance, and composition in both sculpture and ceramics.

  5. Apply surface decoration techniques to enhance the aesthetic and functional qualities of ceramic pieces.

  6. Analyze historical and contemporary approaches to sculpture and ceramics, recognizing key movements, artists, and cultural influences.

  7. Use tools and equipment safely and effectively, following best practices in a studio environment.

  8. Experiment with creative and conceptual ideas to develop unique sculptural and ceramic works.

  9. Critically evaluate and refine personal artistic works, applying feedback and self-assessment techniques.

  10. Prepare and present sculptural and ceramic projects in a professional manner, considering display, context, and artistic intention.

This module aims to provide students with a strong technical foundation and creative exploration opportunities, preparing them for further study or professional practice in sculpture, ceramics, and three-dimensional art.

Course Learning Outcomes:

By the end of this module, students will be able to:

  1. Demonstrate technical proficiency in fundamental sculpting techniques such as modeling, carving, assembling, and casting.

  2. Create ceramic works using essential techniques, including hand-building, wheel-throwing, glazing, and kiln firing.

  3. Work confidently with a variety of materials, including clay, wood, plaster, metal, and mixed media, to develop three-dimensional artworks.

  4. Apply principles of form, texture, space, and composition to enhance the aesthetic and structural quality of sculptures and ceramics.

  5. Utilize surface decoration techniques to improve the visual appeal and functionality of ceramic pieces.

  6. Analyze and discuss historical and contemporary trends in sculpture and ceramics, relating them to personal artistic practice.

  7. Handle and operate tools and equipment safely, following best practices in a studio setting.

  8. Develop conceptual and creative problem-solving skills, integrating personal expression into sculptural and ceramic projects.

  9. Critically assess and refine artistic works, incorporating constructive feedback and self-evaluation.

  10. Prepare and present completed sculptural and ceramic pieces professionally, considering display, exhibition, and audience engagement.

This module equips students with both technical and conceptual skills, laying the groundwork for advanced study or professional practice in sculpture, ceramics, and three-dimensional art.