Books & Magazines

This contemporary guide to clay techniques, tools, and traditions is as inspirational as it is practical. Supported by clear, step-by-step illustrations, this comprehensive resource details a range of handbuilding and wheel-throwing techniques and is a wonderful source for exploring ancient traditions and historic innovations in the world of ceramic art. From the properties of clay to decoration and firing, all information presented is shown against a rich backdrop of dynamic professional and student work. The student text explores ancient traditions and historic innovations. Net Wt. is 1.95 lbs.

This extensive how-to book puts you in touch with all the creative potential of the extruder. With more than 50% new material, this book features new works by artists, up-to-date information on extruders, and sixteen great step-by-step demonstrations, making it a must for anyone with an extruder in their studio. 164 Pages. Net Wt. is 3.14 lbs.

Beyond the world of pinch and coil constructions and wheel-thrown pots lies a vast array of opportunities for the ceramic artist. In Extruder, Mold & Tile: Forming Techniques potters will discover a wealth of information, techniques and inspiration on topics that span the usual to the unusual as well as the functional to the sculptural. Net Wt. is 1.31 lbs.

Nine master ceramic artists present their personal approaches to sculpting the human figure in a spectacular volume that's both technically illuminating and visually inspirational. The outstanding examples range from representational to abstract, diminutive to heroic. Nan Smith uses a range of mold-making techniques and precise slab construction, while Akio Takamori coil-builds a simplified figure inspired by a Velasquez painting and Christyl Boger creates a lavishly decorated, classically formal figurine. Each featured sculptor discusses the unique attractions and challenges of his or her method, and a series of detailed color photographs follows the artwork as it takes shape. In addition, there's a gallery of contemporary pieces selected by the major contributors. Glen R. Brown, a noted writer on ceramics, provides an insightful, thought-provoking introduction.

Looking at how artists from all over the world have modeled the human form in ceramics, The Figure in Fired Clay provides lavish full-color illustrations and examples from prehistoric times to the present, along with the historical, mythological, and methodological background to this fascinating subject. Stunningly beautiful drinking vessels and pottery, some fashioned in the shape of people or animals, some with these figures painted on their exterior, have enhanced the domestic rituals of all cultures, and are brilliantly depicted and examined alongside the experiments of the modern masters-Picasso, Mo Jupp, Eric Mellon, and others.

Going beyond theory straight to hands-on practice, this studio workbook is devoted to the creation of a large, realistic bronze figure, from initial studies through the complex processes of enlarging, modeling, molding, casting, and finishing. First the book deals with preparing the clay, building the armature, developing the figure study, and enlarging it. Then casting is explored, plaster waste, flexible molds, systems of lost-wax casting, metal chasing, welding, mounting, and patinas. Tips on the maintenance and restoration of bronze sculpture are included. Net Wt. is 1.74 lbs.

From Mud to Music explores the vast array of ceramic musical instruments, from their historical traditions in world cultures to modern variations and innovations. All instrument families are represented: percussion, winds, strings, and even unique hybrids. For each type of instrument, special construction techniques specific to clay are explained. In addition, there's a chapter providing detailed, step-by-step instructions showing how to build several ceramic instruments. A companion audio CD contains 43 diverse tracks of ceramic instrumental music. Hundreds of color photos present the work of artists from around the world spanning the last 3000 years. Net Wt. is 3.08 lbs.

Functional Pottery, the best-selling pottery reference first published in 1986, has been extensively revised and updated to include more than 250 color photos as well as hundreds of black and white photos and illustrations. Covering historical as well as contemporary pottery, this acclaimed and inspirational book presents both philosophical and practical experiences from the 43-year pottery-making career of Robin Hopper, one of North America's most recognized ceramic artists.

Traditionally, potters fired their work either at low temperatures, as in earthenware, or at the high temperature that stoneware requires. However, a growing number of potters, particularly those who use electric kilns, are firing to a middle-range temperature, of which cone 6 is typical. Using mid-range temperatures saves fuel and expense, reduces wear on electric elements, yet allows the potter to achieve features shared by earthenware and stoneware. Because of the popularity of this technique, pottery suppliers have recently begun developing clay bodies and glazes suitable for the temperature range. In Glazes Cone 6, Mike Bailey surveys the growing trend in mid-temperature firing and guides the reader by practical knowledge. He discusses a range of different glazes, including special effects, glaze stains, and underglaze colors, giving both recipes and tips for ensuring success.

A reference book on glaze technology and practice. It discusses not only the calculation of glaze composition and formulae, but also glaze preparation from the initial crushing and grinding of raw materials through the actual making of the glaze. It also includes information on the use of gums and binders, flocculation and the use of suspending agents. The author also talks about application methods as well as how to remedy faults that may occur. A new chapter on health and safety has also been added. Net Wt. is 1.09 lbs.