Ceramics is the art and technology of forming, firing and glazing clay to make a wide variety of products, ranging from building materials to ceramic ware such as plates, bowls and drinking vessels, jewellery, sculpture and decorative wall surfaces.
Contemporary applications of ceramics are constantly expanding. New industrial and high technology uses are being found and artists and designers are exploring new expressive forms. Ceramics provides challenging work opportunities for students in such areas as studio and industrial ceramics, ceramic research, engineering and product design.
This course enables students to develop an understanding of ceramic processes and practices, and the ways in which these can be used in making a range of products. Students develop a critical appreciation of the aesthetic, expressive and utilitarian qualities of ceramic forms in contemporary and past societies, and knowledge of the diverse applications of ceramics in contemporary society and ways of valuing the skills involved in making well-crafted forms. They also develop skills to give form to their ideas and feelings in ceramic products.
