CREATIVE CERAMICS

(This course is available to students in both Years 9 and 10. It may be selected for either one or both semesters. The content in each semester is different.)

To be successful in this course you need to: • have an interest in Ceramics as an artform • have a wish to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills

In this course you will: • use practical ceramic projects to explore ideas surrounding the concepts of form and function • explore projects that combine a conceptual challenge with the development of new ceramics skills • learn the art and technology of forming, firing and glazing clay to make a wide variety of products, ranging from ceramic ware such as plates, bowls and drinking vessels, to jewellery, sculpture and decorative wall surfaces.

Class activities include: Students participate in Project Based Learning. Each Module is designed so that students gain knowledge and skills by working for an extended period of time to investigate and respond to a driving question, problem or challenge to create works of their choice. Students will have the opportunity to attend excursions to local ceramic studios to undertake workshops and speak to real life ceramists. Module 1: Handbuilding Develop a series of techniques to create your own custom piece of jewellery. Project examples: Decorative works including pendants, earrings, trinket boxes and stands Module 2: Wheel throwing You will learn industrial construction methods including how to centre clay on the wheel, wedge clay, throw cups, bowls and small vessels. Project examples: Functional works that could include cups, bowls, platters, teapots and vessels. Module 3: Slipcasting Learning the technique of mould making to reproduce unique and inspirational objects. Project examples: Casting decorative objects limited only by your imagination! Module 4: Contemporary Approaches Creating functional ceramic works that express your feelings about world issues. Project examples: 3D sculptures, exploration of a variety of decorative skills and applications such as glazes, under glazes, slip, oxide and burnishing.

This course could lead to: • Year 11/12 VET – Certificate II in Visual Arts • Year 11/12 TASC – Art Making, Art Practice, Visual Art and Art Production • Year 12 TASC – Art Studio Practice • UTAS Bachelor of Design, TasTAFE Certificate/Diploma