Ceramics: Throwing Functional Forms - art suplies - Video Recording Review

Arts & Activities, Feb, 2003 by Barbara Herberholz

Video/28 min./$24.95. Level: Middle School and Above. Crystal Productions, P.O. Box 2159, Glenview, IL 60025, (800) 255-8629.

Crystal's "Art Is ..." video series once again features artist Alleghany Meadows as he shows and explains how to make four basic ceramic forms: a cylinder, a plate, a vase and a pitcher. He first displays the necessary tools, such as a sponge on a stick, a needle tool, a wire tool, etc., before he throws a cylinder of a tumbler size. He then demonstrates how to finish the rim before he cuts a cross section to show the even thickness of the walls.

For the second form, he creates a 10-inch dinner plate with four pounds of clay, forming a decorated rim and a pattern in the center before he once again shows us a cross section. For his third project he throws a vase that is broader at the top, requiring the use of a throwing stick as an extension of his hand. His last project is a pitcher requiring slightly harder clay and using a slower speed with the wheel. He demonstrates how to form the spout and pull and attach the handle. The close-ups and monologue by Meadows are excellent, enabling students to view and review the techniques they will need to acquire to help them become competent potters. For information about this program, circle No. 395 on the Reader Service Card.