The ceramics area’s curriculum stresses the blending of traditional and contemporary art practices with an expanded definition of ceramics. Students pursuing study in the ceramics area will be exposed to various sculptural approaches and combinations including performance, video, sound, kinetics, interactivity, installation, architecture, environment, figure, and function. Students are encouraged to exploit materials and processes for their conceptual ramifications, and to identify critical dialogues in which to contextualize their work. Experimentation and research are stressed in developing the student’s individual perspective as they move beyond basic technical hurdles. This developmental process is begun and reinforced through interaction with peers, ceramics and art faculty, artists in the regional community, visiting artists, and other scheduled art events.