Ceramics Reaction Paper 1
DUE ______________
Please choose a ceramic artist of YOUR CHOICE to write a 1 page research paper over.
Please type your paper in 12pt. font and use the entire page. You may include images, after
the text portion; images do not count in reaction paper length.
Please answer the following questions in paragraph form:
FIRST PARAGRAPH:
1. Who is the artist you chose? Country of birth, where do they live?
2. Describe, in detail, what kind of ceramics they do…
a. (Example: terra cotta sculptures of cats, or porcelain vases)
b. What kinds of firings does this artist do? Any special processes (saggar firing,
underglazing).
3. What is the driving concept (idea) of their work?
a. Read the “Artist Statement” or the “About” page. Why does this artist choose to make art
the way that they do? Is there something that inspires them?
SECOND PARAGRAPH:
4. Pick on or two pieces of art from your artist, make sure you include the actual name of the artwork
a. What Elements of Art do you see? Where are they in the artwork and what is their
purpose?
i. line, form, texture, value, shape, space, color
ii. Example: My artist uses red glaze on many of his pieces to create a feeling of anger.
b. What Principles of Design do you see? Where are they in the artwork and what is their
purpose?
i. emphasis, balance, movement, variety, rhythm, unity, harmony, proportion
c. You may include ONE picture – but it must be no larger than 2x2inches
THIRD PARAGRAPH:
5. How do you personally feel about the artwork? Support your opinion.
6. What was your favorite piece and why?
7. Please feel free to add any additional comments to your reaction.
Helpful guidelines:
 Biographical information.
o Focus on the art! (Not his number of marriages).
 Vague statements.
o Example: He uses pretty colors.
o Instead: He uses bold reds to catch your eye and to symbolize strength.
 Giant pictures
o Pictures do not count for paper length. Include after the text, you may reference them in the
text.
 No Plagiarizing
o I will know if you copy from Wikipedia or another source. Don’t copy- write your own
thoughts!
o Plagiarizing carries heavy repercussions. Please don’t go there.