Research Guides: *Art and Visual Culture: Ceramics

Where to Start Research in Ceramics

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Fine and studio arts periodicals, including many on ceramics and pottery. Include these as keywords to find books, images and other publications in this database. This is also a good place to search for specific artists by name.

Subject searching tips for ceramics:

Topics related to ceramics are under the letter ranges NK and TP. To browse at Ladd, go downstairs and using this map to find this call number range as a guide:

NK 3700 - 4695 Decorative Arts - Ceramics

TP 785 - 869 Chemical Technology - Clay industries, Ceramics, Glass

Search these subject headings to find related titles:

Ceramic

Ceramics -- Technique.

Tip: "Studio ceramics" might be more helpful as a keyword than just ceramics, as this indicates fine art ceramics rather than material technology used in engineering!

Artist searching tips in ceramics:

In library research, it is helpful to think of the artist as the author of his/her/their own work.

Use this search when you know the name of the artist, author, editor or translator of a item.
Tip: search last name, first name, for example "Andreson, Laura" If you don't find the artist or author you are looking for, try a keyword search instead.
Tip: Galleries or museums can be listed as authors. Try searching museums and galleries to see exhibition catalogs and other publications by institutions, and add 'ceramic' or 'pottery' to focus on medium. For example: New Orleans Museum of Art and ceramic

Topic Overviews in Ceramics

Here are a few recommended reference sources for contemporary ceramic research:

Ceramics by Philip Rawson
Location: ebook
ISBN: 1283897733
A comprehensive exploration of ceramic art, examining its history, techniques, and aesthetic principles. The book delves into the cultural significance of ceramics, discussing forms, materials, and decoration.
Ceramic Art by Carl Knappett et al.
Location: ebook
ISBN: 9780691226637
Published: 2023-07-11
Ceramic Art explores ceramics as a medium connecting past and present, featuring essays on its history, preservation, and practice. Case studies highlight its global, cultural, and artistic significance across time.
That Continuous Thing by Sam Thorne (Editor); Sara Matson (Editor)
Location: NK3930 .T43 2016
ISBN: 9781849764339
Published: 2017-09-12
Examines the evolution of ceramics studios over a century, from early UK-Japan exchanges to the Californian "clay revolution" and contemporary innovations by emerging UK-based artists.
Color and Fire by Garth Clark; Peter Setz; Jo Lauria
Location: NK3930 .L67 2000
ISBN: 0847822540
Published: 2000-07-07
Color and Fire explores pivotal moments in studio ceramics (1950-2000), showcasing works from the Smits Collection. Featuring exhibition highlights, it traces the evolution of ceramic artistry across several prominent venues.

Humanities Librarian

Marianne Williams

she/her

Contact:

Ladd Library 131
(207) 786-8323
mwillia8@bates.edu

I am usually at the Research Desk Mon. 6-9, Tues. 1-4, and Wed. 10-1

Subjects: Art and Visual Culture, Classical and Medieval Studies, English, European Studies, French, Gender and Sexuality Studies, German, Greek (Ancient), Hispanic Studies, Languages and Literatures, Latin American and Latinx Studies, Russian

Periodicals in Ceramics

Ceramics Monthly
Ceramics Monthly, established in 1953 by the American Ceramic Society, is a leading periodical exploring ceramic art, techniques, and industry trends, offering insights and inspiration for ceramic artists worldwide. Available online.
Interpreting ceramics
Interpreting Ceramics is an academic journal, launched in 2000, exploring ceramic art, history, and culture. It features research and insights from collaborations across UK universities, fostering interdisciplinary dialogue on ceramics.
Ceramics Now
An online magazine dedicated to contemporary ceramics, showcasing emerging and established artists, exhibitions, and trends. It provides in-depth interviews, insights, and a global perspective on ceramic artistry.