Clay Vocabulary Flashcards
(19 cards)
Definition of abstract
non realistic representation of objects
Definition of stylized
the simplification form and details to create a more abstract depiction of the subject
Definition of geometric shape
2D area enclosed by a line that can be proven mathematically
Definition of organic shape
2D area enclosed by a line that cannot be proven mathematically
Definition of composition
how the elements are arranged in unison with the principles of design, in a work of art
Definition of slab
rolling out clay in a flat, even “sheet” of clay and letting it become rigid before you construct the form by connecting pieces
Definition of coil construction
rolling out strips of clay and stacking the clay before smoothing out the surface
Definition of the pinch technique
roll out the clay body into a ball, insert thumb into top and rotate around form- pinching the sides to create the vessel
Definition of bisque ware
a greenware piece of pottery that has been fired one time at a high temperature and is porous and unglazed
Definition of green ware
bone dry state of clay when all the moisture is evaporated out of the clay before firing (most fragile state)
Definition of leather hard
moist but no longer pliable clay body
Definition of score
to make shallow cuts into the surface of the clay before painting with slip and joining to another piece of clay
Definition of slip
creamy mixture of clay and water used to fasten two pieces of clay after both pieces have been scored
Definition of glaze
coating of finely ground minerals that are fired to form a glassy coating on finished ceramics
Definition of vitrification
fired clay that has fused together completely, so that the pores between refractory particles are filled with glass and the body is impervious to water
Definition of slaking
the process of returning dry unfired clay to a slip by soaking in water
Definition of plasticity
how flexible moist clay is
Definition of burnishing
method of achieving a shine by rubbing clay or slip with smooth hard object
Definition of earthenware
low-fired ware, usually still porous after firing– must be sealed with vitreous glaze to be functional
