What is taught in the Glass and Ceramic Design (B. Des) course?

When I first started considering the courses I wanted to pursue in design, I was pretty intrigued by Glass and Ceramic Design. It seemed more like a fine arts course and I wondered whether it would actually take four years to learn this skill.

Well guess what? The world of Glass and Ceramic Design is much more intricate and thrilling than one could ever imagine.

You will explore the art and science of designing and creating beautiful and functional glass and ceramic pieces — from material studies and forming techniques to surface decoration and firing processes. With hands-on projects and multiple opportunities to explore specialized areas, you and your hands will be in for an exhilarating ride.

And I did my research when I wondered whether the course actually needed four years. But what I did find out is that there is SO much to learn and discover. Your four years are going to be exciting but also gruelling :

1. Foundation Courses

- The theories and principles of design 

- Three-dimensional design and sculpting

- Material studies and processes

- Communication and media studies

- Art history and criticism

- Cultural studies and theory

2. Glass and Ceramic Design Courses

- Theory, history, and aesthetics of glass & ceramic design

- Ceramic forming techniques

- Glaze and colour theory

- Kiln firing processes and temperature regimes

- Glassblowing, kiln-forming, and cold-working techniques

- Mold-making and slip-casting techniques

3. Specialization and Elective Courses

- Functional and decorative design

- Surface decoration and embellishment techniques

- Studio practice and professional development

- Sustainable design practices

- Art and design education

- Installation art and exhibition design

- Digital fabrication and technology

- Entrepreneurship and design management

- Collaborative and interdisciplinary project

Of course, the curriculum may vary depending on the specific program and institution.

By the end of this program, you should have been equipped with skills and knowledge crucial to become a skilled designer, maker, and innovator in the field of glass and ceramics, wielding the power of craftsmanship, design and material transformation. Remember to also work on real-world projects, collaborations with industry experts, and portfolio development opportunities

Now, you might also wonder what exactly you could even do with this degree in terms of making a successful career. Is creating random glass and ceramic thingummies your only destiny? You couldn’t be more wrong because look at all the routes you could travel on after this program :

- Glass and Ceramic Designer

- Studio Potter

- Ceramic Artist

- Glass Blower

- Teaching

- Industrial Designer

- Consultant

- Exhibition and Event Designer

- Research and Development

- Interior Designer

- Architectural Designer

- Arts Administration

- Crafts Studio Owner

- Furniture & Accessories Design

If you have a passion for beauty, form, and function, and want to create stunning works of glass and ceramic art, then what are you waiting for??

Uncover the world of design through our other articles to discover more about the diverse and exciting courses offered!🙂

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Nandini Seshan

Communication Design/NID Vijayawada

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