Ceramic Form : Design and Decoration

Form has always been one of the most important aspects of ceramics and one which continues to challenge and stimulate potters throughout the world. In Ceramic Form, Peter Lane explores the various elements involved in the design and making of ceramics by concentrating on the two fundamental pottery vessels - bowls and bottles - which provide the basis for almost all others. Throughout history there has been a bewildering variety of different shapes in ceramic vessels, but it is those basically simple forms which have stood the test of time and still offer possibilities for personal expression to the modern potter. In this beautiful book, the work of more than 150 contemporary potters from around the world is featured and discussed, in an attempt to discover how each potter explores and interprets ceramic form in an individual way. Peter Lane explains the potters' working methods and processes, describes their ideas and sources of stimulus, and considers their different approaches to design and decoration through the use of colour, pattern and texture. The superb illustrations which complement the text also provide a rich source of inspiration and the unique series of forms in silhouette will be invaluable in provoking original creative thought regarding the concept of three-dimensional form. This informative and inspirational book aims to provide a permanent source of reference by bringing together a fine selection of work by potters from various parts of the world. Contents: 1. Introduction: Origins and evolution of pottery vessels in the form of bottles and bowls; the relationship of form to function and subsequent developments; 2. Vessel Form: visual and physical considerations in determining balance and proportion, symmetry and asymmetry, the sense of volume and capacity, working methods and processes, vessels as sculpture; 3. Design: sources of stimulus, elements of design for forms and surfaces, thematic explorations; 4. Decoration; 5. Forms in Profile