Ceramic Face Jugs
Learning Targets
I can...- Create a Face Jug using ceramic techniques learned in class
- Use form (three dimensional, two dimensional), shape (biomorphic, anthropomorphic), and texture (engraved, carved) inspired by American Potter (1801-1870) Dave Drake
- Use multicultural connections (ceramic traditions, 19th century customs, sacred relics) and design principles (balance, composition, contrast) relating to African American (1860-1865) Folk Art
- Define Artifact (object or item made by a human of cultural or historical interest)
Lesson One
Day One, Art Start
1. Don't Judge the Color of my Skin; Judge Me by the Content of my Character. (1917-Present) African American Potter Jim McDowell
2. History Detectives: Civil War Face Jugs by (PBS) Public Broadcasting Service
3. Reflective Discussion "Jim McDowell, who calls himself The Black Potter, is believed to be one of the only African American Potters who creates face jugs based on his family traditions and sacred ancestral traditions of grave markers. In Ansbach, he studied under Nurenmberg German potters, observing their work, practicing on the wheel, and loading the wood fired kiln. He has conducted countless arts-in-healing programs at hospitals and health care facilities. Many of his face jugs are inscribed with messages about his own emotions, ancestors, religious beliefs, and Civil Rights movements."
Lesson Activities
1. Use coil construction to make the jug parts (walls, sphere, base, sides) of ceramic work
2. Use needle tool to lay out surface decorations and facial feature proportions
2. Use slip & score methods to add facial features (eyes, nose, mouth, eyebrows, ears, hair)
Day Two, Art Start
1. Retrieve Ceramic Face Jug for Assigned Table
2. Read Children's Book Dave The Potter Artist, Poet, Slaver by Laban Carrick Hill
3. Discussion Questions "What does this ceramic face reveal about a captive people's search for identity? What did you discover through your research that surprised you? How is the face jug an important aspect of African American culture? How have they evolved and stayed the same? What is the value of preserving the method of making the face jug?"
Lesson Activities
1. Use sculpting methods to smear, smooth, and connect facial features
2. Add functional additions (spout, handles, rims) to ceramic work
3. Add textural details (pupils, hair, mustache, wrinkles) to Ceramic Face Jug
Day Three, Art Start
1. Retrieve Ceramic Face Jug for Assigned Table
2. Set Up Studio Area (water bucket, clay slab,
Lesson Activities
1. Inscribe a poem, couplet, and signature on back of ceramic work
2. Apply watercolor paint to facial features, functional additions, and textural details
3. Apply gloss finish to facial features, functional additions, and textural details
Artist Examples
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