Ceramics are objects made from clay that is permanently hardened by heat. Ceramics are one of the oldest human inventions, dating back to at least 24,000 BC, and have been an important material for both utilitarian and artistic expression purposes throughout history. The people who make ceramics are known by different names depending on their role in the ceramic making process.
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Potter
“Potter” refers to an artisan who creates pottery, ceramic ware, and other objects made from clay bodies and fired in a kiln. The term dates back thousands of years to some of the earliest known civilizations who shaped clay into utilitarian and decorative items like bowls, plates, cups, jars, figurines, tiles, and bricks.
The word “potter” comes from Middle English “pottere” and is derived from the Old English term “pott” meaning pot. It refers to someone who works with “potter’s clay” to make ceramic goods. Potter was already in use as an occupational term during the Middle Ages when organized guilds of potters formed in European towns.
Traditionally, potters learned their craft through apprenticeship programs that taught them how to work the clay, throw pots on a wheel, glaze pieces, and fire objects in a kiln. Even today, most professional potters pursue extensive training either through formal education or informal workshops to master the diverse skills needed in ceramic arts.
Ceramist
The term “ceramist” refers to a person who creates ceramic wares and artworks. Ceramics are objects made from clay that are fired in a kiln at high temperatures to permanently harden them. The word ceramist comes from the Greek word “keramos” meaning potter’s clay or pottery.
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, the definition of a ceramist is “one who makes ceramic products or works of art.”1 The term has been used since at least the early 19th century to refer to ceramic artists and potters who work with clay.
Ceramists create both functional pottery objects like bowls, mugs and plates, as well as purely decorative ceramic artworks and sculptures. They shape the clay using techniques like throwing on a potter’s wheel, handbuilding, slipcasting, and molding. Their creations are then fired at high heat in a kiln to harden and finish the ceramic piece.
Artist
Many ceramic makers consider themselves artists. Artists work in clay to create artistic objects and sculptures using techniques like wheel throwing, hand building, slipcasting, and raku firing. They focus on aesthetic qualities like form, texture, color, and glazes. According to Ceramics Now, renowned contemporary ceramic artists include Kyungmin Park, Kensuke Yamada, and Christie Brown. Artsy highlights Bruce Sherman, Jennifer Lee, and Roberto Lugo as artists shaping the future of ceramics through their innovative techniques and artistic visions.
Craftsperson
Some people who create pottery, ceramics, and other crafts prefer to be called “craftspeople” rather than “artists.” This term emphasizes the skill, craftsmanship, and technical expertise involved in working with clay and other materials.
The term “craftsperson” highlights the knowledge and experience needed to successfully design, throw, glaze, and fire ceramic pieces. It takes dedication over many years to master the potter’s wheel and ceramic techniques.
Many craftspeople train through apprenticeships under master ceramicists. They learn not just artistry, but the science and engineering behind high-quality ceramic production. Terms like “ceramicist,” “potter,” or “craftsperson” recognize this blend of creativity and technical skill.
Some potters feel “artist” downplays the amount of effort and practical knowledge required for their craft. They take pride in their mastery of complex skills passed down through generations. Using “craftsperson” recognizes this while still respecting the creative vision involved.
Ultimately, makers of ceramics may choose terms based on personal preference and how they see their role. But “craftsperson” offers an inclusive option valuing both the artistic and technical sides of working with clay.
Manufacturer
Those working in commercial ceramic production are often referred to as manufacturers. They work in ceramic manufacturing facilities that mass produce ceramic products using industrial equipment and processes. The manufacturing process typically involves mixing ceramic materials, molding them into shapes, and firing the ceramics in high temperature kilns (https://www.sentrotech.com/the-ceramics-manufacturing-process/).
Ceramic manufacturers oversee the end-to-end production process and operate specialized machinery like extruders, jiggering machines, and finishing equipment (https://www.ceramicmanufacturing.net/). They are knowledgeable about ceramic materials, fabrication techniques, quality control, and safety protocols. The goal is to efficiently manufacture large volumes of ceramic products that meet specifications.
Major ceramic manufacturing sectors include tableware, sanitaryware, tile, refractories, technical ceramics, and abrasives. Manufacturers may work for companies producing any of these ceramic materials and products.
Different Types
Ceramicists who make pottery are typically called potters. They create objects like mugs, plates, bowls, and vases from clay using techniques like throwing, hand-building, and slipcasting [1]. Potters focus on functional and decorative ceramic pieces.
Ceramic artists produce ceramic artwork like sculptures, tiles, and wall plaques. They use clay as their medium but focus more on form, texture, and artistic expression rather than utility. Ceramic artists may specialize in sculpting figures, creating abstract shapes, or painting designs on finished ceramic pieces [1].
Some ceramicists work in industry producing items like bricks, pipes, bathroom fixtures, and ceramic insulators. These manufacturers employ processes like extruding, jiggering, and slipcasting to efficiently mass produce ceramic goods [1].
Training
Ceramic makers typically undergo extensive training to hone their craft. Many start by pursuing a formal education in ceramic arts or fine arts with a focus on ceramics. This involves enrolling in a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) or Master of Fine Arts (MFA) program at a university or art school. These intensive programs teach foundational skills in throwing, handbuilding, glazing, and firing (source). Students learn wheel techniques, study ceramic materials, experiment with clays and glazes, and gain experience in kiln firing. The curriculum also covers art history, color theory, and design principles.
Beyond formal education, many ceramic makers seek apprenticeships with master ceramicists to deepen their skills. Working under the guidance of an expert mentor, apprentices gain hands-on training in advanced techniques. This on-the-job training teaches nuances not learned in school. Many also take short-term workshops or classes at art centers, craft schools, or pottery studios to build specific skills.
Overall, most ceramic makers commit to ongoing practice and education throughout their careers. The medium has an enormous breadth and depth, requiring continuous learning. Whether through formal education, apprenticeships, or independent study, ceramic makers devote themselves to lifelong training in their craft.
Tools for Making Ceramics
Ceramic artists use a variety of specialized tools and equipment to create their works. Some of the most common tools used in ceramic making include:
- Potter’s wheel – Used for throwing and shaping clay into vessels and other round objects. Modern wheels are powered by electricity, while traditional kick wheels are operated by foot.
- Kiln – An oven used for firing clay at high temperatures to harden and finish ceramic pieces. There are various types of kilns used for ceramics including electric, gas, wood-fired, and raku kilns.
- Clay tools – Tools used for sculpting, carving, cutting, smoothing, burnishing, and decorating clay. Basic clay tools include loop tools, ribs, cutters, trimming tools, modeling tools, and brushes.
- Glazes and underglazes – Ceramic glazes and underglazes are used to color and decorate the surface of fired clay. They can be applied by brushing, dipping, or spraying.
- Molds – Plaster, clay, resin, and other molds are used to shape clay into specific forms and shapes.
- Slip trailer – Used for pouring liquid clay slip for casting and molding clay work.
- Banding wheel – A rotating metal disk used for applying bands of colored slip or glaze onto pottery.
The specific tools used depends on the type of ceramic work being done, such as wheel throwing, handbuilding, sculpting, molding, or decorating. Ceramic artists may use basic inexpensive tools or more advanced specialty equipment in their studios.
Conclusion
In summary, there are a few common terms used to describe someone who creates ceramics and pottery. The most general terms are “potter” or “ceramist”, referring to someone who works with clay to produce functional or decorative items. More specific labels like “artist”, “craftsperson”, or “manufacturer” may apply depending on the nature of their work and training. While the basic tools and processes may be similar across different types of ceramicists, the final products can vary greatly, from handcrafted studio art to mass-produced commercial wares. Whatever material or methods they use, their creativity and skill at shaping clay into beautiful or useful objects is what defines ceramicists and unites them across different disciplines. In the end, there is no single perfect word to encapsulate every person who engages with this ancient yet evolving craft.
