Design I Class

Name: __________________________ Hour: ________

Project 3: Memories in Clay

Theme: Memorable Memories

In this project, you will create some kind of container out of clay using the slab
technique. After building your vessel, you will add some kind of surface decoration. After
it is fired in the kiln, you will add glaze to your artwork to bring it to life with color. Your
clay artwork should demonstrate the following:
Theme: Did you thoughtfully use the theme of memories to inspire the creation of your artwork?
Form: Does it unify with your theme?
Strong Structure/Well Crafted: Did you use proper slab construction techniques? Is it created with craftsmanship
in mind?
Surface Decoration: Did you include one attachment? Did you include carved out texture? Does it unify with your
theme?
Movement: Do you repeat your decorations around each side of the 3D form?
Contrast: Did you use paint to emphasize your decorations?

Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Plan Your Design
Fill out the project planning worksheet to plan your clay artwork.
Step 2: Create a 3D Shape Net for Your Vessel
On cardstock paper, draw the 3D shape net of your form. A Net is, A pattern that you
can cut and fold to make a model of a solid shape. (Example of a cylinder

net to the left.) This should be the size you want your vessel. Cut the net
out. Write your name on this...you will use it while constructing your vessel.
Step 3: Construct Your Vessel
First, build the body of your vessel using your knowledge of the proper techniques to create a slab construction.
Be sure the walls are not too thin or thick and attach using score and slip. Second, add surface decoration by
adding clay to your vessel (Relief) and carving away designs (Carving) to add texture.
Step 4: Glaze Your Bisqueware
Sand any rough areas and wash your clay artwork prior to glazing. Refer back to your Project Planning Worksheet. You
brainstormed potential colors on this worksheet. Refine your plan, and begin glazing your bisqueware using proper glazing
techniques. Be sure to add 2-3 layers of each color you use, allowing the layers to dry in between each application. To finish
your artwork, add 2 layers of clear glaze.
Step 5: Turn-In Your Project
Turn-in your project on the appropriate due date by submitting the link to your digital portfolio in the proper unit folder on
Schoology. You should have included a clear picture and artist statement in your slides.
Important Clay Terms:
Greenware:
Bisqueware:
Score and Slip:
Carving:
Relief:
Glaze:

Design I Class

Rubric
Theme: Memories
Did you use the theme of
memories to inspire your work? Did
you creatively illustrate this
memory in your work? Is your
artwork meaningful to you?
Form
Is the form unique and creative?
Did you challenge yourself to work
beyond a basic form? Does it unify
with your theme?
Surface Decoration
Do your surface decorations work
with your theme? Did you add one
attachment in a unique way? Did
you carve away to create some
texture?
Movement and Contrast
Do you repeat designs on each
side of your artwork to create
movement? Do your design stand
out because you used contrasting
colors while glazing?
Construction
Are the walls about a thick? Did
you use coils in the connection
areas to ensure a strong structure?
Is 4-5 tall in one direction?
Material
Did you smooth the clay surface in
areas it should be smooth? Did you
sand any areas that needed to be
sanded? Was the glaze applied
properly?

Name: __________________________ Hour: ________

In Progress

0-2

0-2

0-1

0-1

0-1

0-1

Basic

3-4

3-4

Proficient

5-6

5-6

Accomplished

7-8

7-8

Advanced

/ 10

/ 10

/ 10

/ 10

/5

/5

/5

/5

/5

/5

/5

/5

/5

/5

/5

/5

/ 50

/ 50

9-10

0-1

Reflection
Did you include a thoughtful artist
statement?

0-1

Comments:

Teacher
Evaluation

9-10

Thoughtfulness
Did you create your artwork to the
best of your ability?
Did you use your time wisely?
Was your artwork damaged due to
carelessness?

Total Points Received

Student
Evaluation