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Ceramics

Academics . Craft + Design . Ceramics Track

Ceramics Concentration

Cleveland Institute of Art's Ceramics program builds on the age-old medium of ceramic art by teaching both the science and the art of its two major traditions: works of sculpture and works of utility. We expose students to the rich history and contemporary potential of ceramics as a vehicle for the expression of ideas.

You will study nearly every aspect of ceramic work including handbuilding, pottery wheel throwing, glaze making, glazing techniques, and loading and firing of gas and electric kilns. Explore ceramic materials in two- and three- dimensions through the use of mold work and multiples in sculpture, studio pottery, and ceramic design. Expand your creativity as you develop fabrication techniques including 3D printing, press molding, drain casting, solid casting, casting body formulation, slip preparation and use, glazing, and surfacing.

You will do all of this under the guidance of our talented faculty, whose commitment to the art form has earned them international recognition as leading contributors to the medium.

A professor talking to a student in the Ceramics studio
A lot of ceramics pieces laid out on a table in the Ceramics studio
A student adding the finishing touches to her intricate BFA project
Visiting artists doing a demo for students
Two students looking at a ceramics piece together
A student presenting his BFA project
Students working at the potter's wheel
A student looking at color swatches
A student looking at his ceramics pieces
A professor talking to a student in the Ceramics studio
A lot of ceramics pieces laid out on a table in the Ceramics studio
A student adding the finishing touches to her intricate BFA project
Visiting artists doing a demo for students
Two students looking at a ceramics piece together
A student presenting his BFA project
Students working at the potter's wheel
A student looking at color swatches
A student looking at his ceramics pieces

As part of our Craft + Design major, the Ceramics program offers an interactive open studio environment that encourages collaboration and communication between students, peers, and instructors. You are expected to share responsibilities for firing, glaze making, and studio upkeep. You also will participate in group reviews and learn of exhibition opportunities for your work.

Real-world experience for real-world careers
What may best set CIA apart from other colleges of art and design is its commitment to engaged practice. CIA’s Engaged Practice provides you opportunities to learn through experience by working on real-world projects with external partners or clients, or in the public sphere—all before graduation.

These opportunities allow you to put your classroom and studio knowledge to work in a professional setting while still being guided by faculty. You’ll learn what it takes to meet clients’ expectations, and you will emerge with confidence that will serve you as you launch your career.

What can I do with a degree in Ceramics?

  • Art Educator
  • Mold Maker
Cores + Connections

Our connections are your connections.

While at CIA, you'll learn from the masters through our rigorous, world-class curriculum and connect with working professionals to begin your career.