APA2131*

Ceramic study in Tuscany B

8 points - 130 hours of lectures, tutorials, site visits and studio work on locations in Europe and 78 hours of independent study - Third semester - Caulfield - Prerequisites: APA1101, APA1102, TAD1101 and TAD1102, or permission of the subject coordinator - Corequisites: none - Prohibitions: APA2121 - Elective - Note: Incurs substantial travel and accommodation costs which are to be paid by the student to the tour provider. May be taken as an elective subject by students of any faculty except Art and Design - APA2121 is a 6 credit points version of this subject.

Objectives At the end of this course students will be able to demonstrate a historical understanding of the development of ceramics; understand the symbolic use of the landscape in Italian ceramics; recognise the characteristic features and colours of this region; use the landscape as the basis of their own ceramic decoration; understand the materials used in traditional Tuscan ceramics; and demonstrate a level of skill in the production of their own art work.

Synopsis This course develops an understanding of the production techniques and decorative styles of Tuscan Majolica ceramics. Over a four-week period students are introduced to the materials used in central Tuscany since the time of the Etruscans. The best known style of ceramic production from the region is Majolica with its distinctive colours and foliated decorative forms. Students will learn the nature and properties of the materials that have enabled this work. They will employ traditional modelling techniques and learn the painting and glazing skills that have made this characteristic art form known throughout the world. Studying at a studio in the town of Montelupo, which has been the site of continuous ceramic production for over 2500 years, they will also learn of the archaeology of the ceramic industry in this location. Studies in the history of ceramics and of the visual culture of Tuscany will also form part of the course.

Assessment Portfolio of works: 70% - Research book 15% - Essay (1500 words) 15%

Prescribed texts

Handbook for subject APA2131

Recommended texts

Chappell J The potters complete book of clay and glazes Watson-Guptill Publications,1977
Cooper E A history of pottery Longman, 1972
Janson H W A History of art Thames and Hudson, 1991 or other
Lawrence W G and West R R Ceramic science for the potter Chilton Book Co, 1982

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