This course will serve as an introduction to the ceramics used for tea. This includes the properties of the most common clays used for these ceramics and methods for the manufacturing of these ceramics, including both fully handmade and machine-assisted techniques. Particular attention will be paid to the East Asian traditions. By the end of the course, students should be able to understand how each variation in technique and material the choice affects the final product, and why each variation is important to those who use the ceramics, whether that be for practical or aesthetic reasons.

The facilitators will dedicate an hour of class to lecture and discussion, saving the final half-hour for hands-on demonstration, using actual teapots, cups, testing pieces, and other ceramic equipment to more fully illustrate the concepts covered in the lecture. Students are encouraged to share their own experiences with tea culture and making/using ceramics during lecture time, reflecting on how the traditions discussed in class might differ from what they have learned in the past.

Class attendance is required for this course 40%
6 short one-page reflections 30%
Final project 30%

Auditors are welcome if we have enough seats.