डॉ. बी. आर. अम्बेडकर विश्वविद्यालय दिल्ली 
| Course Type | Course Code | No. Of Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Discipline Core | SCC1VA104 | 4 |
Programme Coordinator: Dr. Kshama Divedi
1. Does the course connect to, build on or overlap with any other courses offered in AUD?
Yes. Clay Modelling–I connects with Drawing–I, Composition–I and Sculpture-related studio courses. While Drawing focuses on two-dimensional representation, this course introduces students to three-dimensional form through clay. It complements other practical courses by developing spatial understanding, material handling and form construction without directly overlapping with them..
2. Specific requirements on the part of students who can be admitted to this course: None (Pre-requisites; prior knowledge level; any others – please specify)
Pre-requisites: None.
The course is designed for first-year undergraduate students enrolled in the Bachelor of Visual Art programme. No prior experience in clay modelling is required.
3. No. of students to be admitted (with justification if lower than usual cohort size is proposed):
Usual cohort size as approved for the Bachelor of Visual Arts programme.
4. Course scheduling (semester; semester-long/half-semester course; workshop mode; seminar mode; any other – please specify):
- Semester: I
- Duration: Semester-long
- Mode: Studio-based Practical Course
5. How does the course link with the vision of AUD?
The course supports AUD's vision of experiential learning, creativity and critical engagement. Through hands-on work with clay, students develop an understanding of material, form and tactile expression while encouraging experimentation, observation and individual creativity within an inclusive learning environment.
6. How does the course link with the specific programme(s) where it is being offered?
Clay Modelling–I is a foundation course of the Bachelor of Visual Art programme. It introduces students to the fundamentals of three-dimensional form, volume and material handling. The course prepares students for advanced sculpture practices by strengthening technical skills, spatial understanding and creative exploration.
Course Description:
Clay Modelling–I is a foundation practical course that introduces students to the basic properties and handling of clay. Through exercises in kneading, shaping, coiling and surface treatment, students develop an understanding of form, volume, structure and texture. The course encourages experimentation with three-dimensional forms while building confidence in handling clay as a sculptural medium and provides a strong foundation for advanced studio practice.
Course Objectives:
The course aims to:
- Introduce the basic properties and handling of clay.
- Develop an understanding of three-dimensional form and volume.
- Familiarise students with fundamental clay modelling techniques.
- Enhance tactile sensitivity, observation and motor skills.
- Encourage creativity and experimentation through hands-on studio practice
Course Outcomes: At the end of the course students will be able to:
|
CO1 |
Understand the basic properties and behaviour of clay as a modelling material. |
|
CO2 |
Apply fundamental clay modelling techniques such as kneading, coiling, shaping, and surface treatment. |
|
CO3 |
Develop an understanding of three-dimensional form, volume, proportion, and structure. |
|
CO4 |
Demonstrate creativity and technical skills in producing simple clay models. |
|
CO5 |
Develop confidence in handling sculptural materials through studio practice. |
Modules and Readings
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Module 1 (Lecture Hours Weeks 1–4)
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Module Name: Understanding Clay and Basic Exercises Students are introduced to clay as a sculptural material through basic exercises in kneading, rolling, shaping, and understanding its plasticity, moisture control, and workability. Readings with page numbers: Nelson, Glenn C. Ceramics: A Potter's Handbook, pp. 15–45. Peterson, Susan. The Craft and Art of Clay, pp. 20–55. Speight, Charlotte. Hands in Clay, pp. 10–35. Module II (Weeks 3–4) Suggested Readings: Nelson, Glenn C. Ceramics: A Potter's Handbook |
|
Module 2 (Lecture Hours Weeks 5-7) |
Module Name: Coiling Technique and Simple Objects Students learn the coiling technique by creating simple forms such as bowls and pots while developing an understanding of balance, structure, proportion, and volume.. Readings with page numbers: Peterson, Susan. The Craft and Art of Clay, pp. 90–120. Nelson, Glenn C. Ceramics: A Potter's Handbook, pp. 60–85. Birks, Tony. The Complete Potter's Companion, pp. 70–95. Suggested Readings: Peterson, Susan. The Craft and Art of Clay |
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Module 3 (Lecture Hours Weeks 8-11) |
Module Name: Exploration of Shapes and Surface Texture Students explore three-dimensional forms through carving, imprinting, and simple surface treatments to understand texture, visual quality, and creative expression. Readings with page numbers: Speight, Charlotte. Hands in Clay, pp. 85–120. Peterson, Susan. The Craft and Art of Clay, pp. 140–180. Dormer, Peter. The New Ceramics: Trends and Traditions, pp. 110–145. Suggested Readings: Speight, Charlotte. Hands in Clay |
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Module 4 (Lecture Hours Weeks 12-15) |
Module Name: Creative Clay Composition and Surface Finishing This module focuses on integrating the techniques learned in the previous modules through the creation of a simple clay composition. Students will refine forms, improve surface treatment, and complete finishing techniques while developing confidence in handling three-dimensional compositions. The module concludes with portfolio presentation, review, and viva voce. Readings with page numbers: Peterson, Susan. The Craft and Art of Clay. Laurence King Publishing, 2012, pp. 181–220. Speight, Charlotte. Hands in Clay: An Introduction to Ceramics. McGraw-Hill, 2004, pp. 121–155. Nelson, Glenn C. Ceramics: A Potter's Handbook. Holt, Rinehart and Winston, 1984, pp. 90–120. Week 8: Dallapiccola, Anna L. Indian Art in Detail. Harvard University Press, 2011, pp. 120– 160. Suggested Readings: Nelson, Glenn C. Ceramics: A Potter's Handbook. Holt, Rinehart and Winston. |