Ceramic Arts, M.A.
Program Director: Chaz Martinsen; martinsen@hood.edu; 301-696-3526
The Master of Arts in Ceramic Arts program offers academic training in the aesthetics, science, technology and management of a career in the ceramic arts. Lectures and critiques provide students with an understanding of the history of ceramics and the issues and ideas that underpin contemporary work in all aspects of the medium, as well as a firm grounding in the science of glaze formation, clay development and firing theory. Practical application of the science and technology of the ceramic arts will combine with skill building and individual exploration to develop exhibition-quality work demonstrating personal aesthetic expression. The M.A. requires an exhibition of original ceramic artwork and culminates in a comprehensive exam. With full time study, the Master of Arts in Ceramic Arts may be accomplished in two calendar years; part time study allows up to seven years for completion.
Objectives:
- The student will gain a broad knowledge base of a variety of studio art media, develop technical skills, gain an awareness of historical movements and comprehend universal aesthetic concepts.;
- The student will develop the ability to observe, cultivating analytical and creative thinking skills.
- The student will develop a process for articulating aesthetic ideas and the ability to communicate their personal aesthetic intentions visually in their artwork, verbally and in written form.
Application Requirements
Candidates for the M.A. program must have obtained a prior baccalaureate degree as a studio arts major, art education major or equivalent training in ceramic arts. Students with an undergraduate degree in an area other than ceramics who provide evidence of life experience, skill and drive in the arts may be accepted at the discretion of the program director.
To be considered for admission to the M.A. program, students must meet the admission requirements of the Hood College Graduate School.
Interested parties must submit:
- A completed application to the Hood College Graduate School
- One copy of unofficial transcripts from each institution of higher education attended (official transcripts required upon acceptance prior to enrollment)
- An essay (500 words or less) discussing previous experience with ceramics/craft medias, current work and professional goals in relation to the M.A.
- Two letters of recommendation from individuals familiar with recent work (letters can be emailed to gofurther@hood.edu)
- A portfolio of high quality 300 DPI images in PDF format to include:
- 15 images of current work
- A separate corresponding image list stating title of work, medium, size and dates of completion
- An artist statement about the portfolio work addressing concept, objectives and processes
- Resume
Before acceptance, the Director of the program will conduct an interview with the candidate. This can take place at NCECA or online.
Program Requirements (36 Credits Required)
Core Courses - 17 Credits
| ARTS 501 | Glaze Application | 1.0 |
| ARTS 502 | East Asian Wedged Coil Technique | 1.0 |
| ARTS 504 | Ceramic Decoration | 3.0 |
| ARTS 505 | Ceramic Wheel: Masters' Throwing Concepts | 2.0 |
| ARTS 508 | Ceramic Sculpture | 3.0 |
| ARTS 512 | Eastern & Western Tech in Trimming | 1.0 |
| ARTS 522 | Glaze Calculation, Theory & Practice | 3.0 |
| ARTS 525 | Electric Kilns | 1.0 |
| ARTS 530 | Kiln Technology & Firing Theory | 2.0 |
| Total Credit Hours: | 17.0 |
Art History, Aesthetics and Criticism Courses - 6 Credits
Capstone Courses - 4 Credits
| ARTS 569 | Survival Skills for Visual Artists | 1.0 |
| ARTS 570 | Seminar in Personal Studio Research | 3.0 |
Practicum and Written Exam
Ceramic Art Electives - 9 Credits
Wheel
Handbuilding and Sculpture
| ARTS 513 | Tea Bowl History, Practice and Design | 2.0 |
| ARTS 542 | Modeling the Figure | 3.0 |
| ARTS 545 | Large Scale and Composite Sculpture | 3.0 |
| ARTS 546 | Mold Making and Slip Casting | 3.0 |
Kiln Technology
Special Topics Courses
| ARTS 520 | Photographing Ceramics | 1.0 |
| ARTS 547 | Creating with Porcelain | 3.0 |
| ARTS 564 | Aesthetics and Criticism | 3.0 |
| ARTS 574 | Advanced Studies in Ceramic Arts | 3.0 |
| ARTS 575 | Independent Study | 1.0 - 3.0 |
| ARTS 590 | Teaching Assistant in Ceramic Arts | 1.0 - 4.0 |
| ARTS 599 | Special Topics in Ceramic Arts | 1.0 - 3.0 |