Mercer Times

Ravenna Gemignani, a senior majoring in interactive multimedia, has been exploring the world of clay, moving away from her usual digital art medium. She is part of a course at The College of New Jersey (TCNJ) that introduces students to designing with clay and using ceramic techniques in the college's Makerspace.

The course, Designing with Clay and Makerspace Technologies, is taught by Associate Professors Marchelo Vera and John Kuiphoff. It aims to foster creativity through hands-on experiences. This initiative was made possible by funding from a TCNJ Academic Innovation Award led by Professor Lisa LaJevic.

Students use various equipment like 3D printers and laser cutters in the makerspace. A 3D ceramic printer acquired through the grant will be loaned to Johnson Digital Atelier later this summer.

Gemignani shared her experience: “Typically, I am someone who prefers making digital art than traditional art, but the pottery wheel pushes me to do something out of my comfort zone."

The course also includes interactions with professional artists. Students recently visited Johnson Atelier in Hamilton, NJ, where they observed artist Roberto Lugo using a 3D ceramic printer. They plan another visit to work with Lugo at the end of April.

Artist Taekyeom Lee demonstrated 3D printed typography during his visit to the class. Matthew Pembleton taught about kiln usage and glazing processes.

Art Education graduates Michaela Moran and Sarah Mueller are applying their skills in internships at Johnson Atelier this summer.

Dean Pamela Barnett highlighted the partnership with Johnson Atelier as crucial for teaching cutting-edge art-making processes: “Our partnership...introduces them to the concept that it can take a multidisciplinary team...to make large scale and often public works.”

Vera emphasized integrating artistic disciplines: “Overall, the course is thoughtfully designed to empower students with hands-on experiences that transcend traditional boundaries."

Ryanne McShafferty, a senior graphic design major, described the course as an intriguing mix between makerspace technology and ceramics allowing creative freedom: “I’m looking forward to continuing to absorb such expansive knowledge in the name of creation.”