Hands in Clay: An Introduction to Ceramics [Paperback]

Charlotte Speight (Author), John Toki (Author)

Book Description

ISBN-10: 0767405013 | ISBN-13: 978-0767405010 | Publication Date: January 8, 1999 | Edition: 4

This is the only introductory ceramics text available that combines a thorough appreciation of the aesthetics of ceramic art with extensive discussions of the history of ceramics as well as techniques for working in clay.

Product Details

• Paperback: 500 pages
• Publisher: McGraw-Hill Humanities/Social Sciences/Languages; 4 edition (January 8, 1999)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0767405013
• ISBN-13: 978-0767405010
• Product Dimensions: 10.9 x 8.5 x 1.1 inches
• Shipping Weight: 3.8 pounds
• Average Customer Review: 4.8 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (5 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #448,400 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

68 of 69 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Comprehensive Reference To Ceramics, April 28, 2001

By 

Elyon (Mesilla, New Mexico) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Hands in Clay: An Introduction to Ceramics (Paperback)

This became one of those costly book purchases students have come to resent: required for an introductory level class in ceramics, part of the core requirements towards a studio degree, expensively imposed on a class the bulk of whom will never continue on in ceramics, therefore ultimately destined to become a neglected text sitting on a dusty shelf or returned during university book buy-back for a pittance. This is a shame, as the book is one of the more comprehensive and beautifully put together texts of its kind, and had it been required of students whose clear intention was to go on in ceramics, its obligatory purchase would have been more valued and appreciated.

Containing information well beyond the scope of an introductory survey of ceramic processes, this book is densely packed with information, providing a historical and cultural overview of the use and development of one of the most ancient of the arts, as well as detailed discussions of its various forms and construction, the mixing of clays, the necessary chemistry, kilns, and clay's many glazings and firings. Appendixes and charts containing quite a number of recipes for both mixing clay and creating slips, colorants and glazes are provided at the back, encouraging experimentation, as well as a basic description of the chemical constituents encountered in ceramics. In terms of the latter, both within the text and the appendixes, concerns of potential toxicity are highlighted, providing valuable and essential information often overlooked when working with the potentially hazardous components present in most clays and colorants. Additionally, the authors provide encouragement as to how to easily recycle the environmentally unfriendly waste by-products associated with ceramics, along with helpful tips as to how to set up one's studio in a way that is at once utilitarian and environmentally sound, offering a list of governmental agencies and associations that can assist the ceramicist in addressing these concerns. In addition to providing through the appendixes further avenues for exploration on the part of those working with clay, the authors must be applauded for not ignoring or obfuscating the obvious safety and environmental concerns involved in working with ceramics.

Well organized and detailed, the text is also liberally endowed with photographs and drawings, providing clear visual examples of both the equipment and techniques the ceramicist may encounter, as well as beautiful color plates showing contemporary examples of noted artists' work using a variety of forms and processes. These plates exemplify the diverse and often stunning manner of expression that can be captured in clay, ranging from the sculptural and painterly to installation and multimedia. Their inclusion, along with the depth and breadth of information presented here, certainly justify the price asked for this text, and this book should grace the library or studio of any serious student or practitioner of ceramics. And, I suspect, there is enough information provided here to allow the student that has access to a studio and equipment to begin learning ceramics without the necessity of a classroom.

10 of 10 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars MUST READ, April 26, 2008

By 

Mr. M (USA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Hands in Clay : An Introduction to Ceramics (Paperback)

Anyone getting into ceramic art must read this book. I really wish I had it when I began my venture into slipcasting. I knew nothing and used other sources for information when I could have saved time and frustration by reading this book. The part of the book on moldmaking was worth the price alone. The other moldmaking books I've read left a lot of blank spaces for the beginner. As a visual learner, this book is rich with pics and illustrations.It is comprehensive and something I will be using for many years to come.

31 of 39 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Hands In Clay Volume IV, April 6, 2000

By 

Chloec (Tucson, AZ United States) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Hands in Clay: An Introduction to Ceramics (Paperback)

My college ceramics class had to buy this book. It's really good, the section on how to mix glazes using all of the different frits and stains is very informative. The pictures are inspiring, and the book also gives many techniques for throwing and handbuilding.