Ceramics
West Virginia University's graduate Ceramics program places a strong emphasis on traditional pottery making and the techniques and skills required to be sound versatile artist/potters.
Our graduate program is studio oriented, encouraging students to form strong design sensibilities and mastery of skills that are associated with strong work ethic and active studio participation. Students are expected to be knowledgeable about historic and contemporary ceramic techniques and trends as well as an understanding of ceramic art history and the implications it has on their own sensibilities. The program stresses the importance for students on all levels to understand the function of all studio-related equipment. Students are expected to be involved in the design and construction of kilns and burners as well as having a command of various firing techniques.
Our area also offers students the opportunity to engage in a studio production program that introduces them to industrial equipment and techniques. Ram press and jigger-jolley machinery enables students to learn mold making skills and working knowledge of ceramic producing techniques that are generally associated with industrial ceramic production. Students are introduced to alternative methods of ceramic production that complement strong design sensibilities. Exposure to various marketing strategies and commissions will also provide valuable experience that will assist in the successful operation of private studios.
Our linkage with Chinese ceramic programs provides students with an opportunity to participate in an annual summer travel and study program. Students work and interact with Chinese educators, artisans and students gaining valuable insight and knowledge of various ceramic processes and techniques as well as a historic perspective of the country responsible for the world’s richest ceramic legacy. An ongoing Chinese visiting artist residency program provides our students with an opportunity for a more in-depth experience of traditional and contemporary technique.
Facilities
The studios, totaling over 6000 sq. feet are located on the first floor of the Creative Art Center. Adjoining kiln area (1200 sq. ft.) accommodate gas-fired kilns, with additional outdoor space (1200 sq. ft.) for wood fire kilns, raku and wood storage. Kilns are designed and constructed by faculty, staff and students on an as-needed basis. Kiln types range from wood fire, salt, reduction and raku and range in size from 10 - 120 plus cubic feet. A variety of burner types are employed to offer a full range of experience and understanding for the student potter. Electric kiln include 2-16 cubic foot ovals 1-11 cubic foot L+L round, 2-10 cubic feet round skutts. All electric are top loading. The studio is equipped with 36 wheels, (26 CxC Brents; 4 Randall powered/kick, 6 Soldner kick. Other equipment includes 2 pug mills, 2 professional Soldner mixers, slab rollers, Bailey power extruder, 2 hands extruders, ball mill, 2 Jigger machines, small electrictext kilns and a selection of hand tools. Graduate studio space accessible to the main studios.
Contact Info:
Robert Anderson, M.F.A. (Alfred University), Ceramics
bob.anderson@mail.wvu.edu 293-4841 ext. 3135
