Lesley Baker
Lesley Baker is a ceramic artist, sculptor and educator. Before joining the faculty at RISD, she taught at the Herron School of Art and Design in Indianapolis, IN; UC Berkeley; and the California College of the Arts. She has an undergraduate degree in Architecture from Texas A&M University and an MFA in Ceramics from RISD. Her current work explores the resilience and power of nature by depicting adaptations of animals, idealized depictions in patterns and reuse of natural materials.
Courses
Fall 2023 Courses
CER 3208-01
CERAMICS AND PRINT
SECTION DESCRIPTION
Ceramics and printmaking have a shared ethos in the production of multiples and process-driven technical methods. This is reflected in industry but is not often explored in an academic context. This course would be the first at RISD to explore the rich resources of the Ceramics and Printmaking Departments to promote research into innovative ways to combine the disciplines. For almost three centuries ceramics have been enhanced by printed elements. The combination of ceramic and print technologies have tremendous potential for new applications in functional and sculptural approaches to ceramic multiples and printed editions. RISD has all the facilities in ceramics and printmaking required to pursue research in this field. Students will learn ceramic techniques such as hand-building and slip casting to create forms to hold screen printed, intaglio, relief, and digital images. Historical techniques will be presented and new methods and combinations will be developed.
Estimated Cost of Materials: $200.00
You require instructor permission to register in this course. Please contact the instructor for permission to register. Preference is given to Junior or Senior Ceramics Students.
Elective
CER 4103-01
MOLDMAKING & SLIPCASTING FOR CERAMICS
SECTION DESCRIPTION
In this class we will utilize an industrial approach and integrate it with a fine art sensibility. Students will learn how to make molds and prototypes; produce porcelain casting slip; strategies in casting; traditional and non-traditional surface applications. Course projects will focus on non-functional concepts. Many tools are supplied, however, students are required to purchase a tool kit to supplement those already on hand.
Students are pre-registered for this course by the department; registration is not available in Workday. Enrollment is limited to Sophomore Ceramics Students.
Major Requirement | BFA Ceramics
CER 4175-01
ADVANCED POTTERY & CERAMIC PRODUCTION
SECTION DESCRIPTION
Students in this class will learn to use a variety of ceramic production methods techniques including; molding, pressing, extruding, and giggering, to design and make small pottery editions. The focus is the design and perfection of the objects made and methods used. This class will also serve as a platform for inviting visiting artists to make small editions using our production facilities.
Students are pre-registered for this course by the department; registration is not available in Workday. Enrollment is limited to Junior Ceramics Students.
Major Requirement | BFA Ceramics
Spring 2024 Courses
CER 3311-01
DIGITAL CERAMICS
SECTION DESCRIPTION
This course will explore digital design and production methods of ceramic objects within the context of contemporary art and design. Students will undertake a series of projects utilizing 3D modeling applications to produce forms that can be fabricated by additive technologies including direct extrusion of clay. Students will also build an open source printer to gain a better understanding of the adaptability and control of the tools they will be using. Rhino will be used as the primary CAD tool and students will need to provide their own laptop with Rhino installed. Experience with both ceramics and 3D modeling preferred.
Estimated Cost of Materials: $100.00
Please contact the department for permission to register. Preference is given to Junior or Senior Ceramics Students.
Elective
CER 4106-01
CLAY IN CONTEXT: SPECIAL PROJECT
SECTION DESCRIPTION
In this class you will find a site, a venue, a place from which your investigations will spring. Working from the tradition and need of tableware; or architectural ornamentation; or public art, you will attach your personal expressive needs and vision to uses outside of the studio. Creative and inventive individual solutions are stressed. All ceramic techniques and processes appropriate may be used. Collaboration is encouraged. Designed for students at an advanced level, using clay as a primary material and involving a variety of processes and forming methods.
Please contact the department for permission to register. Preference is given to Junior or Senior Undergraduate Students.
Elective
CER 411G-01
FIRST YEAR GRADUATE STUDIO CERAMICS
SECTION DESCRIPTION
The second semester is a development of the ideas and work begun in the first. Students are available and pursue active contact with the faculty. Students also attend supplemental department presentations.
Students are pre-registered for this course by the department. Enrollment is limited to Graduate Ceramics Students.
Major Requirement | MFA Ceramics
CER 415G-01
GRADUATE THESIS, CERAMICS
SECTION DESCRIPTION
Continued exploration begun during the first year leads to the presentation of a thesis project. Students work during class hours to ensure daily contact with faculty.
Students are pre-registered for this course by the department. Enrollment is limited to Graduate Ceramics Students.
Major Requirement | MFA Ceramics
CER 4198-01
SENIOR THESIS
SECTION DESCRIPTION
The second semester is a continuation of the senior degree project begun in the Fall. The work and ideas are further developed and refined for final presentation at the Woods-Gerry Gallery.
Students are pre-registered for this course by the department. Enrollment is limited to Senior Ceramics Students.
Major Requirement | BFA Ceramics