The Ceramic Surface [Hardcover]

Matthias Ostermann (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: October 21, 2002

A remarkable diversity of techniques are used to treat the ceramic surface. Matthias Ostermann presents an exploration of the ceramic surface—focusing on the vessel and platter—that includes the nonfunctional, the metaphoric, the narrative, and even the sculptural. Through an examination of the works of 200 ceramicists from around the world, he provides a broad overview of contemporary techniques and approaches.

Ostermann covers a wide variety of techniques for making, decorating, and firing, as well as the full spectrum of clays and firing temperatures. Each image is accompanied by technical information, as well as a statement of the artist's inspiration and motivation that offers insight into the concept of the piece.

The Ceramic Surface provides inspiration to ceramicists, educators, and historians, while also celebrating the ingenuity and diversity of talent found in contemporary ceramics.

Editorial Reviews

Review

'a beautifull produced book providing inspiration and information for students and ceramicists alike.' KPA Newsletter 'Over 200 pages of glorious colour to dip into and discover a multitude of different ceramic surfaces.' Craft & Design magazine, July/Aug. 09 'This book is an absolute treasure...suitable for all levels of experience.' www.karenplatt.co.uk (June 2009) '...a beautifully produced book providing inspiration and information for students and ceramicists alike...' KPA Newsletter (2009) '...this beautiful book will provide inspiration to ceramicists, educators and historians alike.' London Potter Newsletter (August/September 2009) --This text refers to the Paperback edition.

About the Author

Matthias Ostermann is a practicing ceramicist and lecturer. He is the author of The New Maiolica: Contemporary Approaches to Color and Technique and The Ceramic Narrative, also available from the University of Pennsylvania Press.

Product Details

• Hardcover: 208 pages
• Publisher: University of Pennsylvania Press (October 21, 2002)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0812237013
• ISBN-13: 978-0812237016
• Product Dimensions: 11.2 x 8.9 x 0.8 inches
• Shipping Weight: 2.3 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 3.5 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (2 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #665,516 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

4 of 4 people found the following review helpful:

3.0 out of 5 stars Beautiful, but slightly disappointing, November 4, 2007

By 

Timothy J. Joko-Veltman "Tim" (Brasilia, Brazil) - See all my reviews

This review is from: The Ceramic Surface (Hardcover)

There is no doubt about it: this is a beautiful book. The paper, binding, print, photography is all first-rate. But I was disappointed, nonetheless. The book is basically a collection of pieces by many different ceramic artists, with equally different surface treatments. In essence: a coffee-table book. Not that I mind that so much, but I have to limit myself to the pictures - because I can hardly stand the "Artist's Statements" that accompany each photo (I can't stand being told what to think, and I heartily agree with Jean Cocteau: "An artist cannot speak about his art any more than a plant can discuss horticulture.") If you like that kind of thing, then this might be just the book for you.

One thing I did appreciate was the short paragraph on how the piece was made, but these frequently appear to be simply obfuscations and filler text, and I can't help wonder if these artists aren't more than a little insecure.

2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars inspirational rather than technical, April 26, 2008

By 

H. Cooper (Australia) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: The Ceramic Surface (Hardcover)

This beautiful book is a welcome addition to my collection. Its very simple format of one image per page and brief written description of the work, often by the artist, makes it an inspiring and yet relaxing book to flick through with your feet up on the couch. As far as technical information goes, this is more of a starting point - leading you to research further the surface finishes and techniques that most appeal to you.