Clay Tools & Vocabulary
What is a pin tool used for in ceramics?
A pin tool is used for cutting, scoring, and adding fine details.
What are the four steps of the Feldman Model of Art Criticism?
Describe, Analyze, Interpret, Judge.
What is the difference between shape and form?
Shape is 2D (flat); Form is 3D (has volume and depth).
Which artist is known for creating sculptures using found objects and arranging them in monochromatic, box-like compositions?
Louise Nevelson – She created large, monochromatic sculptures using found objects, often arranged in box-like structures.
What are proper safety rules when working with clay dust?
Avoid creating dust, clean up with water, never sweep dry clay dust.
What is slip, and when is it used?
Slip is a liquid mixture of clay and water used as a glue for joining pieces.
What is the purpose of critiquing your artwork?
To reflect on your work and improve it through feedback.
Define radial balance and give an example of where you might see it.
Radial balance radiates from a center point, like a mandala or flower.
What is Maya Lin best known for creating?
Maya Lin is known for the Vietnam Veterans Memorial.
What does the term “found art” mean?
Art made from everyday or repurposed objects not usually considered art.
What is a ribbon tool, and what is it primarily used for in clay work?
A ribbon tool is a looped metal tool used for trimming, carving, and hollowing out clay. It’s especially useful for removing clay from the surface or refining shapes.
During the analyze step, what should you focus on?
You examine how elements and principles are used (e.g., balance, emphasis, contrast).
What are the three types of balance in art?
Symmetry, Asymmetry, Radial.
What made Claes Oldenburg’s sculptures unique?
Oldenburg’s sculptures were giant, soft versions of everyday objects.
What’s the difference between additive and subtractive processes in sculpture?
Additive = building up material; Subtractive = carving or removing material.
What are the three main stages of clay (before and after firing), and what are the key characteristics of each?
Plastic – soft, flexible, and workable clay.
Leather-hard – partially dried, firm but carvable; best for joining pieces.
Bone-dry – completely dry, very fragile, ready to be fired.
What’s the difference between interpret and judge in a critique?
Interpret = explain meaning or feeling;
Judge = assess success or quality of the piece.
What’s the difference between emphasis and unity?
Emphasis draws attention to a part; Unity ties all parts together harmoniously.
What material and message did Maya Lin use in her most famous work, and what memorial did she design?
Maya Lin designed the Vietnam Veterans Memorial using black granite to create a powerful, minimalist tribute honoring those who died in the war. The work emphasizes reflection, loss, and remembrance.
What is intellectual property, and why is it important to artists?
Intellectual property protects creative works from being copied without permission.
Name three hand-building techniques used in ceramics and briefly describe each.
Pinch, slab, and coil: pinch forms shape by squeezing; slab uses flat sheets; coil stacks rolled ropes of clay.
How does receiving a critique help with self-growth in your artwork?
Critiques help you identify strengths and weaknesses to improve future artwork.
Name four principles of design and briefly explain how each helps organize elements of art.
Balance, Movement, Pattern, Contrast — help organize visual elements effectively.
What is the intent or purpose of public art?
To enhance community spaces and make art accessible to the public.
Define installation art and explain one characteristic that makes it different from traditional sculpture.
Installation art transforms a space and often invites viewer interaction; it's often site-specific.