Clay Nature Pinch Pot

In this lesson, students will explore clay construction by creating a pinch pot inspired by nature. They will begin by constructing a basic pinch pot using clay, and then enhance it by adding hand-modeled pieces inspired by nature. To add colour and complete their piece, students will glaze and fire their work.

Lesson 1

Students explore various shapes and forms found in nature. They will examine objects like nuts and seeds to draw inspiration for their own artwork. Demonstrate the process of creating a pinch pot using clay. It is important to ensure that students properly knead their clay and shape it into a sphere before starting. Once the clay is prepared, students will press it out to form the shape of their pot.

After constructing their pots, students will practice hand-building small seeds and pods that were inspired by nature. They will create a variety of these pieces to add to their artwork. It is essential to guide students in joining their clay pieces correctly by scoring, adding water or slip, and blending the clay together. Once all the pieces are added, students will allow their work to dry before proceeding to the bisque firing stage.

Lesson 2

Students apply an underglaze to their bisque-fired pots. They should carefully consider the colours they wish to use and apply the glaze properly. Discuss the clay firing and glazing process with the students. Once the underglaze has been applied and dried in two layers, students can proceed to apply two layers of clear gloss glaze before firing their work.

Reflection:

Students can discuss some of the shapes and forms that were observed in nature and how they drew inspiration from them as well as outlining some of the process, techniques and considerations that need to be made when working with clay.