Brief description

Module Title   Ceramics and Collection Management

Academic Year 2002

Course Co-ordinator Moira Vincentelli

Other Staff Elizabeth McDermott & Kathy Talbot (Ceramic Archive)

Semester 1

Assessment 1 hour Computer Assisted learning test 30%
Catalogue preparation for one set of pots (or equivalent) 30%
Group Project   40%

Brief description
The course is focused around the ceramic collection and archive in U.W. Aberystwyth which offers a unique resource for the study of ceramics. The collection contains examples from the earliest period (archaeological material) through to contemporary studio ceramics along with a paper archive and an oral history archive largely relating to studio ceramics.
The taught classes introduce students to the basic techniques of ceramics and examine aspects of ceramic history through the study of works in the collection. The second part of the course consists of a project which would allow students to develop the learning experience by applying their knowledge to a particular aspect of collection development. Recent research around the ceramic collection and archive has involved both oral history, which includes interviewing, transcribing and analysing tapes; and the development of web-based materials. Staff also work in conjunction with Aberystwyth Arts Centre on gallery education activities with schools.

Learning Outcomes
At the end of the course the student should
understand the history of the collection in the wider context of the history of ceramics
know the basic issues involved in maintaining and developing the collection
have detailed knowledge of specific artists and works in the collection
have developed skills in group working
have particular experience of display, exhibition curation or gallery education

Short Bibliography
   
Moira Vincentelli The Ceramic Collection Aberystwyth, Aberystwyth, School of Art Press 1993
Robert Meyrick and Neil Holland The Instruct and Inspire, Aberystwyth, School of Art Press, 1997
Oliver Watson British Studio Pottery, Oxford, Phaidon, 1990
Frances Hannah Ceramics, London, Bell and Hyman, 1986
Moira Vincentelli Talking Pots Ceramics in Wales, Aberystwyth 1992
Paul Scott Ceramics and Print, London, A&C Black, 1994
Paul Scott & Terry Bennett Hot Off the Press, Ceramics and Print, Carlisle, Tullie House, 1996 (with essay MV)
Moira Vincentelli Women and Ceramics, Gendered Vessels, Manchester, MUP, 2000 Tanya Harrod Crafts in Britain in the Twentieth Century, Yale U.Press, 1999