AHT 4030 - History of Japanese Ceramics

With its ancient history and diversity of styles of production and finished wares, Japan has long held a preeminent position in the world of ceramic arts. This course will explore the cultural and geo-political context in which Japanese ceramic art developed and currently thrives. Topics will include the impact of geography and the proximity of China and Korea, Shinto and Buddhist beliefs, the lifestyle of the Samurai class, and the significance of the Tea Ceremony on the development of the art form. We will explore the production of the Six Ancient Kilns, the Mingei Movement, and the work of selected Living National Treasures. We will look at the ways that Japanese ceramics has had a large impact on the development of American contemporary artist-potter’s work, and how American Abstract Expressionism has in turn impacted Japanese ceramists. Finally, we will study contemporary trends in Japanese ceramic art as a new crop of artist-potters throw off the shackles of centuries of tradition. Credits: 4 Formerly AHT 403