Art & Craft of Ceramics: Techniques, Projects, Inspiration

by Maria Dolors Ros i Frigola

Hardcover: 160 pages
Publisher: Lark Books; First Edition (2005)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1-57990-912-4
ISBN-13: 978-1-57990-912-3
Dimensions: 12.0" x 9.4" x 0.75"
Shipping Weight: 2.35 lbs.

Both beginning and experienced potters will refer to this comprehensive, profusely illustrated ceramics guide often. It introduces the most important aspects of the craft, starting with the basics and progressing to more advanced concepts. Maria Dolors Ros i Frigola—an artist with an intense devotion to teaching—will inform, motivate, stimulate, and encourage you to move forward with your own work.

Begin with an overview of the development of ceramic art in the last century, one of the most creative periods. Here you'll see many remarkable examples by the most noted artists of the day.

A clear understanding of this subject is essential for success. Closely examine the essential characteristics of raw materials, their preparation, and their use. Then take a look at the various tools and equipment required, organized according to specialties. You'll also compare different firing methods and find critical advice on working with kilns.

From handbuilding to mold production, key forming techniques are clearly described and presented in a series of photographs. Even someone with little experience will be able to master these methods by following along. In addition, there's an introduction to the potter's wheel and tips for making the most of this significant tool. Clays and glazes have specific properties that vary during firing. Maria explains the principles of different glazes in a concise, practical way so that it's easy to understand how they function. She goes on to cover interesting firing materials and methods, such as copper red glazes, paper clay, and raku.

Finally, there are six projects for you to try—including a modern wall sculpture and a large, one-of-a-kind earthenware pot—that provide further knowledge about clay in general.

Complete with a gallery of work from some of the most renowned ceramists of our time, this milestone volume presents the infinite artistic possibilities of the craft.