The Hidden Art of Pottery

By Jean Gregory

The Hidden Art of Pottery is a richly illustrated and deeply insightful guide to the timeless craft of ceramics, written by master ceramicist Jean Gregory, whose 15 years of experience as an artist and educator shine through every chapter. This book is a celebration of clay in all its forms-functional, sculptural, traditional, and experimental.

Perfect for beginners and experienced potters alike, it explores every major aspect of pottery: from understanding clay types and tools to mastering wheel throwing, hand-building, glazing, and firing. Jean's clear, encouraging voice makes complex techniques accessible, and her tips on surface design, kiln types, and glaze chemistry give readers the tools to elevate their craft.

What You'll Discover Inside: 1. Foundations of Pottery

Clay Science Made Simple: Understand the composition and behavior of different types of clay-earthenware, stoneware, and porcelain-and how to select the right one for your project.

Essential Tools & Studio Setup: A detailed guide to the must-have tools and materials for beginners and professionals, from ribs and bats to kilns and glazes.

Studio Safety & Ergonomics: Learn how to protect your body and your workspace while maintaining a sustainable and comfortable pottery practice.

2. Core Techniques and Methods

Wheel Throwing: Step-by-step instruction on centering, pulling, shaping, trimming, and refining forms. Includes troubleshooting tips for common issues like wobble, collapsing walls, and off-center rims.

Hand-Building Techniques: Explore the foundational methods of coil building, slab construction, and pinch pots, with artistic variations and functional applications.

Mold Making & Slip Casting: A dive into replicating forms and creating complex shapes with plaster molds and liquid clay.

Surface Decoration: Learn about carving, stamping, burnishing, and inlay techniques that add texture and personality to your work before firing.

3. Advanced Artistic Practices

Glazing Science & Application: Jean demystifies the chemistry of glazes, offering advice on mixing your own, achieving desired finishes, and layering for depth and dimension.

Kiln Firing Methods: Electric, gas, wood, Raku, pit, and soda firing-explained clearly with real-world guidance on temperature control, loading, and atmospheric effects.

Color, Texture, and Form: The artistic choices that elevate functional pottery into fine art are explored with real examples from Jean's own work and student projects

You'll also discover pottery's cultural roots, artistic evolution, and meditative value, with practical guidance on developing a personal style, setting up a studio, and selling your work professionally. With over photos, real studio stories, and step-by-step instructions, The Hidden Art of Pottery is a comprehensive, inspiring resource that will deepen your connection to clay and ignite your creativity.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: B0FK5XC7HM
• ISBN13: 9798294467616
• Release Date: July 2025
• Publisher: Independently Published
• Length: 106 Pages
• Weight: 0.58 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.2" x 8.5" x 11.0"