What is Pottery?

Pottery is a form of ceramic art that is created by forming clay into various forms, which can be decorated before or after firing. It is made from a number of different types of clay, each with its own unique properties.

The shaping of a pot can be done in several ways, including hand-building and wheel-throwing. Wares are typically constructed from coils of clay, combining flat slabs of clay, or pinching solid balls of clay or some combination of these. Parts of a hand-built vessel are often joined together with the aid of a runny mixture of clay and water, called slip.

A variety of additives can be used to improve the appearance and function of a ware, such as metal oxides or carbonates in the body. Contrasting color clays and grog (fired clay that has been finely ground) may also be added to the body before or after forming.

It is important to note that the composition of the clay body must be such that it can be fired in a kiln at a high temperature. During this process, irreversible changes take place in the body of the ware, allowing it to become stronger and more durable than it would have been at room temperature.

This means that pottery is a very physical and challenging art. It is easy to get frustrated and distracted, but as you work with the clay more you will learn to focus on the task at hand.