Ceramics is the production of pieces using moulded clay which are then baked into a hard finish. Ceramics has been practiced for centuries to produce a wide range of decorative and functional pieces.

Some of the earliest ceramic finds can be traced back to ancient Japan circa 10,000 BC. Despite the age of these works they appeared to be surprisingly detailed pieces.

Traces of early ceramics were also found in Iran dating around five thousand years later. It also thought that Iranian people had the skills and knowledge to produce works before this on the Iranian High Plateau. Around this time other civilisations were also starting to create ceramics. Chinese and Native American pieces were noted for their unique designs.

The origins of pottery in the west trace back to the Roman era. As the Romans visited and occupied different civilisations they became influenced by existing methods. Greek and Egyptian styles were the main influences which became adapted to suit the roman lifestyle.

In Britain ceramic and pottery skills can be studied as modules on art courses and sometimes as specific individual courses. There are several different associations and bodies which operate in Britain to assist ceramics enthusiasts.

Studio pottery is an online resource which aims to promote awareness of ceramics and items of related interested. Studio Pottery does this by communicating with individuals and groups to obtain information to share with fellow enthusiasts. Studio pottery is based in Britain and now operates internationally.

Studio Pottery can be found online where contact details can be obtained to reach potters and events organisers. The site features extensive listings of potters where you can read about their previous exhibitions and view images of their works. The site also has details to help people to get into ceramics such as information on courses which can be studied.

The site also has extensive listings of forthcoming exhibitions which can be viewed by individual potter or browsed by date. Galleries are also regularly added to the sight showcasing commercial ceramics on sale.