Tama Art University

Ceramics, glass, and metals have been used for practical and decorative purposes since the dawn of civilization, and during that time production and processing techniques have undergone continual development. With the aid of craftsmanship and modern technology, the contemporary artist can fully exploit the intrinsic beauty of each material, and discover a wide range of expressive possibilities.

Making something by hand is a straightforward activity that includes all the creative processes important for humans. A person who wishes to make an object must think about the reason for making it, what to make, how to make it, and which materials to use. However, with the pursuit of efficiency and mass production in modern society, the process of making an object has become divided into discrete steps. Technology has resulted in fewer opportunities for craft-based production and deprived people of experiencing the joy and intellectual stimulation involved in individual manufacture. As a result, many have simply lost interest in making something by themselves.

The Department of Ceramic, Glass, and Metal Works questions such a situation and endeavors to promote an awareness of the importance of individually-crafted works in everyday life. In the first year, students learn the characteristics of ceramics, glass, and metals, and the basic processes involved in the treatment of each material. In the second year, students choose courses to learn particular techniques and expertise in order to acquire the basis of self-expression. In the third and fourth years, students express the combined result of theory, practice and technique in the form of finished works.

The department offers well-equipped facilities, including ceramic kilns, metal studios, and a glass studio, and the teaching staff are always ready to give expert advice. The aim of the department is to encourage students to think by using their hands and to pursue their own creative style.

Educational field

Ceramic, glass and metal works

Introductory education

• Students experience the fundamental properties of ceramics, glass, and metals.
• The department gives instruction in the basic processes of making objects with each material.
• Students learn the features of each material and explore its potential.
• Students are encouraged to consider the nature of craft through discussion.

Basic curriculum (basic skills in a selected course)

• Students learn the basic techniques of a selected material in order to acquire a basis for visual self-expression.
• In the Ceramic Course, students gain a deeper understanding of shaping, surface treatment techniques and firing.
• In the Glass Course, students seek new formal possibilities by exploring the relationship between self-expression and the special characteristics of glass.
• In the Metal Course, students expand their expressive potential by acquiring fundamental metalworking skills.

Special curriculum

• Students are expected to consider the significance of craft in contemporary life and search for new approaches.
• Students aim to develop their own style by carrying out comprehensive research and acquiring a wide range of techniques.
• Students plan and create works.
• Through lectures, discussions, and report assignments, students consider the significance of object-making.

Graduate school

• Students focus on their future activities and communicate with society through their artworks.
• Students aim to establish their own theory and techniques of expression.
• Based on individually made plans, students review and check their progress.
• Students prepare a final paper summarizing the results of their two-year course.