Ceramics

Explore the role of function, emerging technologies, historical precedents and contemporary practices.

At AUArts, Ceramics is where tradition meets transformation. Whether you dream of creating striking sculpture, innovative tableware or public art, this program is for makers who want to leave their mark on the world. Join a passionate community, push the boundaries of what ceramics can be, and find your unique voice through hands-on experimentation, critical research and creative risk-taking.

Program Overview

Dive into an immersive curriculum that balances hands-on technical skill with creative exploration. You’ll start by mastering the foundations of wheel-throwing, handbuilding and glazing, then advance into sculptural and digital ceramics, mold-making, slip-casting and experimental forms.

AUArts offers a studio culture where no single style dominates—functional pottery, large-scale installations and digital decal printing are all within reach. Learn in spacious studios equipped with state-of-the-art kilns (electric, gas, soda, wood, catenary) and collaborate with celebrated artists, expert technicians, and visiting international talent. Through critiques, research projects, and exhibitions, you’ll develop a critical voice, build a portfolio and prepare for a career that spans art, craft and design.

Program Highlights

• Wheel-Throwing, Handbuilding & Sculptural Freedom: Start with foundational skills in wheel-throwing, coil and slab building, and handbuilt sculpture—then expand into personal forms and experimental modes.
• Experimental Approaches: Push the boundaries of clay in courses that blend ceramics with other media, digital processes, or performance—go beyond pots and plates to installation, mixed media and interdisciplinary projects.
• Moldmaking, Casting & Multiples: Learn traditional and innovative techniques in plaster mold-making, slip-casting and serial production.
• Surface & Colour Exploration: Investigate colour, glaze chemistry and surface design through low- and high-fire glazes, overglaze, underglaze and innovative application techniques.
• Ceramics for Social Change: Take on “Social Pots” and other classes that connect form and function with community, narrative and activism—discover clay as a medium for cultural critique and social engagement.
• Self-Directed Practice & Advanced Studios: Shape your own creative journey in upper-level studios and seminars: develop cohesive bodies of work, pursue independent proposals and situate your practice within global contemporary ceramics.

Learning Outcomes

Graduates of the Ceramics program will:

• Demonstrate advanced technical skills in handbuilding, wheel-throwing, mold-making, slip-casting, glazing and firing.
• Synthesize conceptual, aesthetic and practical problem-solving strategies in the creation of original bodies of work.
• Articulate critical perspectives on the history, theory and contemporary practice of ceramics within craft, design, and fine art.
• Experiment with emerging technologies and interdisciplinary approaches—including digital tools, surface treatments and large-scale installations.
• Engage professionally with the broader field through exhibition, documentation, research and community engagement.