Book Description:
<strong>A worldwide survey of innovative work, ranging from makers of functional ceramic objects such as teapots and tableware to those who explore the possibilities of clay as an artistic medium.</strong> Over the last decade the narrowing of the gulf that traditionally existed between the realms of fine art and craft has resulted in a shift in perception of what ceramics can be and can mean. All areas of ceramic practice have been revitalized as a result the creative possibilities that artists, lured by the plastic and tactile qualities of clay, have brought with them into ceramics have influenced ceramists of all backgrounds.<br /> <br /> Analyzing work from the last ten years, this book covers every aspect of contemporary ceramic practice and includes work of all sizes from a few inches to large scale installations. It is organized <br /> into five main chapters: <ul> <li> <strong>Beyond Utility</strong>: original yet functional ceramics </li> <li> <strong>Defining Space</strong>: wheel thrown shapes, slip cast forms, and hand built structures</li> <li> <strong>Mind the Gap</strong>: sculptural work from precise and mechanical to freely modeled forms </li> <li> <strong>A Sense of Space</strong>: installations, both site specific and environmental</li> <li> <strong>The Line of Beauty</strong>: collaborations between art and industry that result from advances in technology </li> </ul> <em>Contemporary Ceramics</em> also includes biographies of the featured ceramists and a directory of museums and galleries. 611 color illustrations.
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