This foundation course explores materials, concepts, techniques, and processes in ceramics, including basic design principles, creative development, hand-building, throwing, glaze techniques, firing, and ceramic terminology. Emphasis is placed on personal exploration within the context of historical and contemporary developments across cultures. Evaluation and critique of aesthetics and the creative development of clay objects, including historical examples of ceramics from various cultures, historical periods, and aesthetic sensibilities will be discussed during the lab and lecture hours. Students will be introduced to the fundamentals of making, decorating, and firing. Field trips may be required. Formerly: ART 51A. Transfer credit: CSU; UC.