Naked Clay: Ceramics Without Glaze

by Jane Perryman

Softcover: 182 pages
Publisher: University of Pennsylvania Press (2004)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0-8122-3848-6
Dimensions: 11.1" x 8.9" x 0.8"
Shipping Weight: 2.38 lbs.

A growing number of ceramic artists now choose not to glaze their work. Instead, they use an unglazed—naked—surface to achieve their design objectives. From slips and terra sigillata to brushing, engobes, oxide washes and additions to the clay body, there is a wide range of techniques these artists employ to achieve desirable finishes. As these techniques are suitable for a broad spectrum of processes, subject matter and context (from slipcasting to handbuilding, from high to low firing temperatures, from figurative to conceptual, from domestic to public), the scope of the work produced by these artists is enormous.

In Naked Clay Jane Perryman not only presents the finished ceramics and techniques of an international group of artists but also investigates their ideas and areas of inspiration to further an understanding of their work. Each artist presented here has a unique style and way of working, but they are all connected through their committed relationship to the material and their desire to express their ideas using "naked" clay.

This beautifully illustrated book will not only inform and inspire students, professionals and teachers, but it will also fascinate collectors and indeed anyone with an interest in contemporary ceramics.