Crafts & Pottery Curriculum & Syllabus
Creating Arts made from materials rooted in World Traditions
D. McLaughlin
Course Description:
Room 134
The intention of this course is to build on previous art learning experiences. We
will build a strong foundation for understanding that in art, as in life, each problem
may have multiple solutions. By experimenting with new materials and revisiting
materials you have already worked with, you will develop new ways of
expressing your very own thoughts and feelings as you develop your own style.
You will gain a historical understanding of how art developed over time as artist
reflected and viewed life and the world
around them.
Students will:
1.
Learn selected basic world histories of crafts and become aware of some
contemporary crafts ideas.
2.
Learn some basic concepts of crafts.
3.
Explore a range of basic studio creative processes.
4.
Learn the technical application of a variety of tools, equipment and
materials.
5.
Develop perceptual skills through analyzing and identifying visual
components.
6.
Work with visual elements and principles through demonstration and
oral communication.
7.
Develop understanding of the relationship between form and content in
sculpture….
COURSE OUTLINE:
The knowledge base for this course outline is described in the section following the
outline items.
A.
Introduction and Course Overview
1. Purpose, scope and sequence, competencies and
expectancies
2. Discussion of perception and observation
3. Historical and contemporary materials, techniques, styles,
and functions
4. Examples and illustrations (artworks)
B.
Tools and Materials
1. Hand tools, power tools and equipment
2. Temporary materials and permanent materials
3. Techniques
C.
Creative Processes
1. Nature and abstraction
2. Imitation and expression
D.
E.
F.
3. Function
4. Problem-solving
5. Pre-conceived outcomes
6. Influence of process and material
7. Artist as craftsman and artisan
Elements
1. Mass, shape and form
2. Space (including negative space)
3. Planes and surfaces
4. Line and silhouette
5. Texture
6. Light
7. Color
8. Gravity
9. Time
Principles
1. Proportion
2. Balance
3. Movement
4. Rhythm and repetition
5. Emphasis and dominance
6. Function
7. Variety
8. Size and scale
Criticism and Analysis
1. Individual and group activities
2. Verbal and written analysis
3. Relationship and form and content
Projects and materials will include but are not limited to:
Batik/fibers
printmaking
Weaving on a loom
Basket weaving
Clay: handbuilding: slab, coil, pinch pot, beads
Clay: Learning the Wheel
Book making
SKETCHBOOK: MEDIA/STUDIO DRAWING:
Perceptual skills from drawing from direct observation and regular practice to
build eye/hand coordination.
Observational drawing will show the following:
Value to show form:
Texture:
Implied/Actual
Variety of mark making
DIGITAL PORTFOLIOS : You will be required to maintain a digital portfolio
Photographing artwork
Editing photos
Presentation methods
labeling artwork
Self-refleciton
Goal setting
Progress documentation
BASIC INSTRUCTIONAL PLAN AND METHODS UTILIZED:
Introductory instruction is through lecture, slide lecture, demonstration, assigned
reading, and assigned visual study (gallery or museum viewing). Primary mode of
instruction is through studio practice – manipulation of tools and materials, to
provide sculptural solutions to problems. Peer consultation, individual critique,
group critique, sketches, journal writing, and response papers enable students to
assess and evaluate their work.
A series of projects are assigned which are completed during class and outside of
class. Class critiques of finished work are an integral part of each project. A range of
media will be used.
Projects address the elements and principles of three-dimensional design as
outlined above. Consideration is also given to concept, craftsmanship, originality
and expression. This is essentially a problem-solving class- there are many possible
solutions to any given problem. Another major objective of the class is that the
participants learn the vocabulary of sculpture and employ that vocabulary during
class critiques.
We are a community of learners in this class. Co-operation and exchange of ideas
among us all is encouraged. The completion of many projects is enhanced through
co-operation.
Studio safety is emphasized. Learn to use tools properly. Keep your work area
clean and organized and be aware of what others are doing around you. Become
familiar with equipment before using it. After working, replace all tools, clean your
area, and store your projects on shelves.
COURSE REQUIREMENTS:
A.
Completion of all assigned projects
B.
Participation in group and individual critiques
C.
Sketches and daily journal writing
D.
Consistent class attendance
METHODS OF EVALUATION:
30% PROJECTS: Satisfactory completion of projects and their requirements in time
for class critiques.
Originality, appropriate craftsmanship, content, and dynamic visual impact of
solutions.
30% Minor Projects/deadlines of works in progress and PARTICIPATION IN
CRITIQUES
Quality and quantity of participation in individual and group critiques.
Performance in sketchbook/journal, response papers, and oral reports.
SKETCHBOOKS/JOURNAL are reviewed at midterm and final times, and
throughout the semester. Use your sketchbook to record information from
exhibitions, slides, lectures in class, oral reports, 3-D forms you see around
you, your projects, and other students’ projects. Journalize after each class
on what you experienced and/or learned. Use your journal to outline
reading assignments.
20% Classwork Cooperation
CONSISTENT CLASS ATTENDANCE Attendance to each entire class is
essential to understand projects, see demonstrations, view slides, take
advantage of work time, participate in class discussions, and get help with
your projects. Expect to work outside of class as well. You are responsible
for learning the information presented in class from other students or from
Miss McLaughlin after school every Thursday. Other after school times may
be possible based on availability.
OBSERVANCE OF SAFETY AND CLEAN-UP PRACTICES Be sure you know
how to use tools properly and use the appropriate safety equipment. Allow
time for returning tools, cleaning up debris, and storing work in progress.
This WILL BE a part of your accumulated grade.
20% Quarterly Common Assessments (District Mandated
Quarterly Assessments)
10%
Homework
TOOLS AND MATERIALs REQUIREMENTS
BRING A PENCIL AND YOUR SKETCHBOOK TO CLASS EVERY DAY.
Sketchbook/journal : Spiral bound 60 pound plain paper –available at AC
MOORE for around $5.00 – 50% off coupons are available in the paper, or on
line. If this trip to the store is not possible, a loose-leaf 8 ½” x 11” binder
that includes both lined and unlined paper is accepatable.