Department of Art
Clay, Craft and Creative Expression
Explore Ceramics Courses
View thesis projects that showcase the creativity, research and artistic vision of students in UAF's BFA and MFA programs.
See how a UAF ceramics student combined art, teaching and research to build connections within the clay community.
The thing I love about teaching鈥攂ecause teaching is, especially in beginning classes and intermediate classes, a lot of skills-based, technical-based, skills-based knowledge鈥攊s you're empowering people to achieve goals that they have. So the people come to these classes with this pull, or this desire, to make something or express something from inside of them that they feel the need to externalize. I'm helping people figure out the skills or the materials or the mechanisms that they need in order to express that fully. I think it's a really essential and valuable part of our society...Amy Edler '26 M.F.A., Art
We have a 3500sq ft indoor facility with a complete array of equipment including seven kilns 20+ wheels and three clay mixers. We have a separate outdoor kiln facility at the Experimental Farm that has a large anagama, wood/ salt and fast/fire wood-burning kilns. Graduate studio space is in a separate building. We generally offer five classes per term.
The program also supports an active student group, the Student Ceramics Arts Guild which hosts a visiting artist program, scholarships and student activities.
We strive to develop an environment that promotes the art making process by creating and maintaining an open forum where group interaction encourages, challenges and fosters the creative experience.
Ceramics students learn from faculty and adjunct instructors who maintain active creative practices and contribute to the field through exhibitions, community engagement and professional artistic work. Through mentorship, critique and hands-on studio instruction, students develop technical skills, creative confidence and a deeper understanding of contemporary ceramic art.
Ceramics students share their work through exhibitions, public showcases and special projects. Students are encouraged to participate in the annual Student Invitational Exhibition and Juried Student Exhibition, gaining valuable experience presenting their work and connecting with the broader artistic community.
3 Credits Offered Fall and Spring
This hands-on course introduces fundamental concepts and organization of three-dimensional forms, including applied art and industrial design. Various materials such as wire, clay, silicone, and paper are explored. This course is recommended for students becoming B.A. or B.F.A. Art majors and students interested in exploring material manufacturing processes.
Attributes: UAF Degree Humanities Req
3 Credits Offered Fall, Spring and Summer
Foundation experience with clay. Overview of the medium of ceramics and its possibilities.
Continuation of Beginning Ceramics. Emphasis on developing proficiency in ceramic studio practices and processes focused around the potter鈥檚 wheel.
Prerequisites: ART F201. Attributes: UAF Degree Humanities Req
3 Credits Offered Spring
Continuation of Beginning Ceramics. Emphasis on developing proficiency in ceramic studio practices and processes focused on handbuilding techniques.
Emphasis on developing as aesthetically perceptive and technically proficient ceramic artist. Individual and group projects include kiln firings. May be repeated for credit with permission of instructor.
Prerequisites: ART F301 or ART F302. Attributes: UAF Degree Humanities Req
3 Credits Offered Spring Even-numbered Years
An in-depth exploration of a specific concept and related techniques in ceramics. Topics vary each semester and could include: Mold Making, Figurative Ceramics, Atmospheric Firing and Historical Inspiration.
Prerequisites: ART F201. Stacked with ART F604.
3 Credits Offered As Demand Warrants
Kiln design and construction including building and firing a kiln. May be repeated for credit with permission of instructor.
3 Credits Offered Fall Even-numbered Years
A thorough understanding of the materials used to make clay bodies and glazes is an essential tool for the ceramic artist. Through lectures, readings and lab work the student will better understand how different materials work together and how to safely utilize these materials in their own artistic practice.
Stacked with ART F656.
3 Credits Offered Spring Odd-numbered Years
This class provides a foundation of practical information for students as they begin to consider various career options in the visual arts. Topics include documentation, websites, promotion and description, exhibit installation methods, marketing, developing application materials for residencies and grants, as well as issues of health and safety.
Prerequisites: Junior standing. Stacked with ART F688.
1-6 Credits Offered Fall and Spring
Exploration of selected topics in ceramics with lectures, demonstrations, independent research and production of ceramics at a level commensurate with graduate standing. May be repeated for credit.
Prerequisites: Graduate standing.
Teresa Shannon
Assistant Professor of Ceramics
Fine Art 411
Ready to create? Apply to UAF and develop your artistic practice while working alongside faculty and fellow artists.
Have questions about the program? Connect with our department and learn more about degree options, studio concentrations and opportunities for emerging artists.
Explore scholarships and funding opportunities available to art students.
