Course content

 

The main aim of the course is to create confident and self-sufficient ceramicists with excellent critical thinking and problem solving skills, who succeed in their chosen career discipline be it fine art, design or craft.

 

Graduates follow a wide range of careers related to ceramics and visual arts with many establishing their own practice, while others have gained employment working in education, community arts, art therapy and the design industry. A significant number of graduates progress onto the school’s prestigious MA Ceramics course and can subsequently pursue Doctoral studies in ceramic research.

 

The course provides a wealth of opportunities for professional practice and enterprise activity that enables students to be well informed about their career decisions.

 

This is a vital, exciting and challenging course that encourages a wide innovative approach to clay based art practice. Central to the philosophy of the course is the emphasis we place upon fostering your creativity, through the evolution of visual and practical skills and technical understandings. History and theory forms an integral part of the course, enabling you to understand the ways in which your practice is informed by the work of artists, designers and makers in the past and influenced by the theories and debates of today. You will be taught by a team of highly experienced academic and technical staff, dedicated to ceramics. Their input is complimented by lectures and workshops, delivered by eminent artists, makers and theorists from across the UK, Europe and other key centres in the world.

 

Year one: The emphasis in this year is on developing process skill and material understanding. You will undertake a series of studio and workshop-based courses, introducing you to a range of methods of working with clay which include hand-building techniques, throwing and mould-making. Ceramic technology including firing and glazing is taught in ways that will enable you to understand and apply the principles with confidence. Practical work is supported by historical and theoretical studies including visits to museums and galleries across the UK and Europe.

 

Year two: The emphasis in this year is on creativity and exploration. You will build on your understanding and skills developed during the first year. Individual exploration and interpretation is encouraged along with a self-directed study approach, through negotiation and close tutorial guidance. Projects are underpinned by historical and theoretical lectures and supported by a dynamic visiting lecture programme. You will have the opportunity to undertake relevant work experience and are encouraged to take part in our international exchange programme.

 

Year three: Throughout the final year emphasis will be placed on individual realisation and professional practice, not only on the standard of work produced but in the identifying of markets and opportunities available for pursuing your chosen career route. You are given the opportunity to further focus and consolidate your individual interests, producing a body of creative work for a public exhibition at the end of the course as well as for exhibition in national shows such as New Designers. Your studio practice will be informed by and developed through your dissertation.

 

Assessment

You are assessed through completed studio project work, essays and seminars throughout the course. The degree classification is based on performance in year three of the course.

 

UCAS code

W232

 

Entry qualifications and applications procedures

Please view this page for our advice on how to apply and the entry level for this programme. We have an open mind on the qualifications you bring with you. We simply want to be convinced that you have the commitment to pursue this degree and the skills to make it worthwhile.

 

Further information

Course Director: Ingrid Murphy imurphy@uwic.ac.uk

 

 

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