Lettering on Ceramics

Writing on clay is as old as history because that's basically where history begins - clay records are among the oldest on earth. Writing on clay started as an ancient form of communication and has gradually evolved into an art form in its own right. In Lettering on Ceramics, Mary White shows how this tradition has developed, covering methods of imposing letters onto clay, including stamping, stencils, slip trailing, resist methods, carving and relief work among others. She also looks at a number of artists working in this area, showing beautiful examples of their work, and examining their approach and methods of lettering. Also included is a selection of calligraphic alphabets to use for inspiration or to copy.ContentsBrief History covers lettering on ceramics from the 6th century BC to modern times.Tools and Materials briefly discusses clays, glazes and colors (although this book is from England so they say colours.)In the chapter on Methods, White discusses the various methods for lettering including brush, sponge, stencils, resists, applying color, slip-trailing, impressed, engraved, raised, decals and more.Form illustrates how slabs, panels, tiles, murals, coiled forms, cubes, pebble pots and bowls all make suitable surfaces for lettering.White includes nine sample Alphabets to use as a guide and explains a few of the finer points about type and calligraphy.The final chapter includes Artists using Lettering in Australia, Belgium, Denmark, France, Germany, United Kingdom, Holland, North Africa, Switzerland and the United States.