Modern Art Visual Arts Education

John Mason Ceramics American Artist

John Mason was an American artist who was known for his experimental work with ceramic art and sculptures. John Mason was born on March 30, 1927, in Madrid, Nebraska, and died on January 20, 2019, in Carlsbad, California. Mason’s work focused on exploring the physical properties of clay and its “extreme plasticity”. He created new … Read more

Terracotta: An Ancient Art Form with a Timeless Beauty

Terracotta is a type of clay-based ceramic material that is used for making various decorative & functional objects such as sculptures, pots, tiles, & roofing. It is known for its reddish-brown color, porous texture, & relatively low firing temperature. Terracotta has been used for thousands of years in many cultures, including ancient civilizations in China, … Read more

Test Your Art Knowledge – Play Art Jumble!

Are you a real Picasso or just a want-a-be artist? Click the link below to find out!!!

Art Jumble

Ceramic Art

Unlocking the Secrets of Crafting Perfect Hard Slab Pottery

Unlocking the Secrets of Crafting Perfect Hard Slab Pottery

Ceramics known as “hard slab pottery” are made by molding and shaping clay slabs into certain shapes. Hard slab pottery can be made using a variety of processes.

Check out the full post!
  • Maximizing Efficiency Through Advanced Kiln Operations
    Advanced kiln operations go beyond the basics of simply firing clay and involve a deep understanding of temperature controls, firing schedules, and atmosphere manipulation. Professionals often use computer-controlled kilns to achieve precise results, manipulating variables like oxidation or reduction atmospheres during the firing process. Specialized techniques such as salt firing, soda firing, or wood firing … Read more
  • The Best Aprons for Potters: The Perfect Apron
    The best aprons for potters are sturdy, made of durable material like canvas or thick cotton. They should have deep pockets for tools and an adjustable fit. Ideally, they cover both the chest and legs, protecting against clay splashes. Aprons are a potter’s trusty sidekick. A good apron has been a game-changer! Feature/Aspect Pottery Apron … Read more
  • What to Wear to a Pottery Class: 8 Secrets
    When heading to a pottery class, comfort is key. Opt for old, loose-fitting clothing you don’t mind getting messy, as clay splatters are inevitable. Closed-toed shoes are a must for safety, and short sleeves or rolled-up sleeves are practical. Avoid dangly jewelry, as it can get caught. Lastly, tie back long hair to keep it … Read more
  • Pottery Wheel Bats: Secrets Unlocked
    A pottery wheel bat, often referred to as a “bat,” is a portable, removable platform that attaches right onto the wheel head of your pottery wheel. They’re typically made from plastic, composite materials, or plaster, and come in various sizes to suit the different projects you might be working on. Bats are incredibly useful for … Read more

Firing Techniques

  • Firing Clay | Money Saving Tip
    Firing clay turns raw clay into ceramic through high-temperature heating. This occurs in a kiln. Clay is fired in two stages: bisque firing and glaze firing. The first fire is a bisque firing, which is slower.
  • Ceramic Firing Techniques
    Methods of Ceramic Firing Firing is the method for making ceramics that can endure a lot of pressure. Firing takes place in an oxygen-rich environment. When it comes to firing pottery, there are two primary methods. The use of kilns and open firing are the two methods. The crucial step in the ceramic process is … Read more
  • Pit Firing Techniques
    Using The Pit Firing Method Pit Firing is an ancient method for firing pottery. Pit Firing goes back to 25,000 to 29,000 BCE. Unfired pots are grouped together in the ground and are surrounded by combustible materials. The pit is set on fire. After cooling, pots are cleaned and sometimes waxed, creating a smooth glossy … Read more
  • Raku Firing Technique
    Using The Raku Method Raku firing is a low-temperature firing method. The pottery is removed from the kiln while the pots are hot and the glaze is still molten. Raku is typically made from stoneware clay. Raku firing is bisque fired at 900 °C or 1,650 °F. And glaze fired between 800 to 1,000 °C … Read more

Ceramic Glazes

  • The Art of Pottery Glazing: Exploring Materials and Techniques
    Pottery glaze materials are essential components in the ceramic art, determining color, texture, and finish of the final piece. Pottery glaze materials Pottery glazes typically consist of silica, feldspar, whiting, kaolin, and various colorants. These ingredients meld together during firing, creating a glass-like surface. Understanding the properties and interactions of these pottery glaze materials can … Read more
  • Flawless Finishes: Identifying and Eliminating Clay and Glaze Defects
    Clay and Glaze Defects encompass a range of issues that can arise during the pottery-making process. Clay and Glaze Defects Pottery often manifests as pinholes, blisters, crazing, shivering, and even color inconsistencies, affecting the final product’s aesthetics and functionality. Recognizing and addressing these imperfections is crucial for producing high-quality ceramics. Clay and Glaze Defects can … Read more
  • Exploring the Art of Special Pottery Glazing
    Glazing Techniques are an intricate part of pottery that elevates its visual appeal. Pottery Glazing, when done using unique methods, can turn an ordinary piece of clay into an extraordinary work of pottery. Artists often search for and experiment with Special Pottery Glazing Techniques to make their pieces stand out. Why did the potter get … Read more
  • How To Use Underglaze: Mastering the Art of Underglaze
    Underglaze is a colored ceramic material applied to bisqueware pottery. To use underglaze, prepare the bisque-fired piece and ensure it is clean. Apply the underglaze using a brush, sponge, stencil, or other techniques to create desired patterns. Once dry, apply a clear or tinted glaze, then fire the pottery to seal the underglaze and create … Read more

Clays

  • Mixing and Matching: An Exploration of Clay Body Recipes
    Clay body recipes provide precise mixtures of clay and other ingredients to achieve specific textures and firing outcomes. Starting with the right clay body recipe is crucial, as it can be tailored for sculpting, throwing, or hand-building, ensuring optimal consistency and workability. The world of pottery thrives on such tailored clay recipes. From the Alfred … Read more
  • Unlock the Secrets of Mixing Clay Powder with Ease
    How to mix clay powder is a fundamental skill in pottery. When learning how to mix clay powder, it’s essential to ensure even distribution for consistency. Start by sieving the powder to remove lumps. Gradually add water, stirring continuously to achieve the desired texture. Remember, the key to a smooth finish is ensuring no air … Read more
  • The Art of Clay Mixing: Unlocking the Secrets of Ceramic Creation
    “How to mix clay” is a fundamental skill in pottery, ensuring consistency and workability. How to mix clay enthusiasts often blend different clay types to achieve desired textures or to prevent defects. Mixing involves several steps: 1 Choose Compatible Clays When I dive into the world of pottery, one thing that stands out is the … Read more
  • Unearthing the Different Varieties of Clay: A Comprehensive Guide
    Types of clay vary based on composition and usage. Clay types for pottery include earthenware, stoneware, porcelain, and ball clay, each with unique properties and applications. From sculpting to ceramics, understanding the different types of clay is essential for artisans. Clays Used in Pottery Making Clays Not Typically Used in Traditional Pottery Making 1 Porcelain … Read more

Ceramic Artistry

  • The Art of Kiln Candling
    What is candling a kiln? Candling is the initial phase in the firing process, particularly crucial for greenware, which is unfired or raw clay. During candling, the kiln is set to a low temperature, usually between 100°F to 200°F, for several hours. The primary purpose of this step is to ensure that all the remaining … Read more
  • The Intersection of Function and Art in Pottery
    Functional art is a captivating blend of practicality and aesthetics, offering both utility and visual appeal. It transforms everyday items like furniture, kitchenware, and clothing into artistic masterpieces. The key is the infusion of artistic flair into utilitarian objects, making them not just useful but also visually stunning. This form of art is accessible, as … Read more
  • The Alchemy of Earth and Fire: Why Some Pottery Pieces Are Worth More Than Gold
    The “Value of Handmade Pottery” is a multifaceted concept that goes beyond mere price tags. At its core, it’s a blend of craftsmanship, artistry, and cultural significance. Each piece tells a story, of the artist’s vision, the intricate techniques used, and the cultural context from which it originates. The material, age, and rarity also contribute … Read more
  • What Makes a Ceramic Art Piece Visually Pleasing: A Journey Beyond the Kiln
    What makes a ceramic art piece visually pleasing is a combination of various artistic elements that engage the senses and evoke emotion. Balance and proportion create a harmonious look, while the choice of color and glaze can set the mood or tone of the piece. Texture and surface treatment add tactile interest, inviting the viewer … Read more
The Supreme Artistry: Exploring the Highest Form of Art

The Supreme Artistry: Exploring the Highest Form of Art

The expression or application of human creative ability and imagination is called art. The highest form of art is subjective and varies depending on one’s perspective. Some may argue that classical music, opera, and ballet are the highest forms, while others may argue that painting, sculpture, or literature are the highest forms.

Check out the full post!

Artistic Philosophy

  • What is a tag?
    From the Streets to the Gallery: How Graffiti Tagging Has Influenced Contemporary Art
    A tag is a stylized signature or symbol created by a graffiti artist, often using spray paint or markers. It is typically a quick and simple design used to mark territory or establish the artist’s presence in a particular area. Tags can range from simple monikers to elaborate designs incorporating letters, numbers, and graphic elements. … Read more
  • Defining Graffiti Art: Is it Art or Vandalism?
    Graffiti is a form of art that involves creating visual or textual content on public surfaces, such as walls or buildings. Whether graffiti is considered art or vandalism depends on factors such as location, intent, and quality. Graffiti has a rich history, ranging from ancient civilizations to modern urban street culture, and has influenced mainstream … Read more
  • The Mysterious Art of Banksy: Why He’s So Famous
    Banksy is famous for his anonymous street art and social commentary. He uses a unique style of graffiti to make political statements and challenge societal norms. His work often includes stenciled images and provocative messages that capture the public’s attention and inspire conversation. The mystery surrounding his identity has only increased his notoriety. The top … Read more
  • The Power of Art: Escaping Shallowization
    Art has been a part of human history for a long time, starting from the cave paintings of early humans to the masterpieces of the Renaissance and beyond. As it shapes our culture and provides a potent outlet for creative expression, art is still significant in modern society. The need for artistic expression has never … Read more

Art Education

  • Decoding the Canvas: The Hidden Layers of Meaning in Art Criticism
    Interpretation in art criticism is the stage where you delve into the deeper layers of an artwork to uncover its meaning, message, or emotional impact. It’s not just about what’s on the canvas, but what lies beneath, be it the artist’s intent, the cultural context, or even your own personal experiences that the art evokes. … Read more
  • The Art of Healing: Uncovering the Therapeutic Benefits of Working with Clay
    The therapeutic benefits of working with clay range from improving mental health to enhancing physical dexterity, clay offers a holistic approach to well-being. The therapeutic benefits of clay extend to emotional healing as well. The tactile nature of clay allows individuals to express themselves in a non-verbal way, which can be incredibly freeing. Working with … Read more
  • Creating a Home Pottery Studio: A Step-by-Step Guide
    Setting up a home pottery studio is an exciting venture for both beginners and seasoned potters. It allows you the freedom to create whenever inspiration strikes, right in the comfort of your own space. Setting up a home pottery studio involves careful planning, from selecting the right location to ensuring proper ventilation and lighting. Essential … Read more
  • Turning Clay into Cash: How to Sell Pottery Online
    Selling pottery online has revolutionized the way artists reach their audience. With the advent of e-commerce platforms, it’s easier than ever to showcase your work to a global market. Selling pottery online allows you to bypass traditional retail spaces, offering a direct line to consumers interested in your craft. Various platforms like Etsy, eBay, and … Read more

Meet The Artabys Team

Our mission is to promote comprehensive education on visible arts, including modern ceramic art, pottery, ceramic and clay sculptures, and pottery design. We also feature educational articles on modern art, ancient art paintings, and drawings because this knowledge can applied to modern ceramic art. We want to help you create your own art and learn how to evaluate and appreciate it.

Hello there! I am Ed Shears, a professional ceramic artist and author at Artabys.com, a website dedicated to promoting visual arts education and awareness. I am responsible of all content of this site. My passion lies in creating unique ceramic wall art that breaks away from the traditional pottery made on a potters wheel. Contact: Ed@Artabys.com

Meesh Switch is a multi-talented artist, author, webmaster, and product manager at Artabys.com. With years of experience in the art world, Meesh is passionate about promoting visual arts education and supporting talented artists. Mentions: Meesh at PebasDesign.com Interior design ezine. Contact: Meesh@Artabys.com

Hello, I’m David Jackson, an artist and editor for Artabys.com. As a publisher for Artvilla.com, The Magazine of Modern Art, Poetry, and Music since 1992, I have extensive experience in the art industry. My latest artwork can be seen at SaleforArt.com, where I showcase my diverse range of contemporary art. Contact: David@Artabys.com