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GOVERNMENT POLYTECHNIC COLLEGE

PERITHALMANNA
DEPARTMENT OF ELECTRONICS ENGINEERING

REPORT ON

COMMUNITY SKILLS IN INDIAN KNOWLEDGE SYSTEM

TEAM 04

ADARSH K 2201040380
ASWIN KRISHNA 2201040074
ATHUL MOHAN A 2201040075
CHANDIR SHARUN 2201042277
DANISH N 2201040078
JUNAID 2201041312
MUHAMMED NIYAS V 2201040087
SHIBIN M 2201042283
MUHAMMED SINAS E 2201040090
SOURAV V 2201040105
YADHUKRISHNAN M P 2201040114
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INDEX
sl Topic Page no
no
1 Introduction 4
2 About the community 5
3 Raw Materials&Tools 6
4 Making of products 8
5 Products 9
6 Marketing 11
7 Challenges 12
8 Requirements 13
9 Suggestions 14
10 Questions & Answers 16
11 Conclusion 19
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Introduction
Pottery making is a timeless craft that blends tradition with innovation. Our
recent visit provided a firsthand look at the fascinating world of ceramics
production.

This report aims to share our experiences and insights from the industrial visit.
We learned about the process of transforming clay into beautiful ceramics,
interacted with skilled artisans, and explored the techniques involved in
creating pottery.

From the potter's wheel to glaze application, every step in the pottery-making
process showcased the craftsmanship and creativity behind this art form. Our
visit allowed us to appreciate the dedication and expertise required to produce
functional and decorative pottery.

Through this report, we aim to showcase the rich history, techniques, and
modern influences in pottery making. Join us as we delve into the artistry and
skill that define this captivating craft.
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About The Community

Pottery is the most sensual of all arts. In India, we have had a great tradition
of pottery making. In fact, being an agricultural country, pots for storage of
water and grains were in demand. The real beginning of Indian pottery began
with the Indus Valley Civilization and the art of shaping and baking clay
articles as pottery, earthenware and porcelain has continued through the
ages. While pottery and earthenware are definitely utilitarian and often
decorative, porcelain and studio pottery belong to the sphere of art.
There is proof of pottery making, both handmade and wheel-made, from all
over India. In the Harappaan civilization potter's place was quite an important
one in society. The craft was well advanced. Rectangular oven for firing the
product were in use. Seals and grain and water containers were made that
were put to use effectively. The potter occupies a unique position in the craft
traditions of India. India is home to more than a million potters. The potters
are wonderful masters of their trade.
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Raw Materials & Tools

 Clay
Clay is the longest-known ceramic material. Prehistoric humans
discovered the useful properties of clay and used it for making
pottery.

 Water
The correct water content in the clay body activates the plasticity
and elasticity of dry clay particles. This step transforms the clay from
a hard, dry and brittle state to one which is easy to work with.
Hydration is not a random process; good clay consistency is achieved
as a result of experience acquired over time.
Too much water, and the clay loses its strength and shape; too little,
and the clay is hard and resistant in the hands of the potter. On the
wheel, a potter can get wrist tendonitis if he or she works on clay
that is too hard.
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 Earthern Minerals
Earthen minerals provide the foundation for pottery, influencing its
appearance, durability, and versatility. The careful selection and
understanding of these minerals are essential for potters to create
unique and functional ceramic pieces.
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Making of Products
Choose the type of clay suitable for the desired pottery (e.g., earthenware,
stoneware, porcelain).

Knead the clay to remove air bubbles and ensure uniform consistency.

Create shapes using techniques like pinching, coiling, or slab-building.

Shape clay on a potter's wheel by spinning and manipulating it with hands and
tools.

Allow the formed pottery to air dry partially to a leather-hard stage before
proceeding.

Use tools or objects to create surface patterns.

Fire the dried pottery in a kiln to around 1800°F (1000°C) to harden it into
bisqueware

Allow the kiln and pottery to cool gradually to prevent cracking.

Examine the finished product for quality before packing or displaying.

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Products
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POTTERY VESSELS: A pottery vessel is a functional or decorative

container made from clay that has been shaped, fired, and often glazed.
These vessels can vary widely in form, size, and style depending on their
intended use and the artistic preferences of the potter. Here's a detailed
description of a typical pottery vessel:

SCULPTURES: Pottery sculptures are intricate works of art sculpted from

clay, employing various hand-building techniques like pinching, coiling,
and slab construction. These sculptures range from small figurines to
large installations, showcasing the versatility and creativity of the artist.
After shaping, the sculptures are fired in a kiln to harden the clay, making
them durable and resilient. Artists often apply surface treatments like
glazes or underglazes to enhance texture, color, and visual impact.
Pottery sculptures serve as captivating artistic expressions, blending
traditional craftsmanship with contemporary creativity, and they play a
significant role in art history and cultural heritage.

MUGS AND CUPS: Designed for holding beverages like coffee or tea.
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Marketing
Marketing in the pottery industry involves promoting and selling ceramic
products through targeted strategies:

Targeting Customers: Identify specific customer groups like home decorators,

collectors, or gift buyers based on demographics and interests.

Product Positioning: Highlight unique qualities of pottery such as

craftsmanship, design, or cultural significance to stand out in the market.

Promotion Tactics:

Maintain a strong online presence through websites and social media.

Create engaging content like tutorials, videos, or behind-the-scenes glimpses

of pottery-making.

Collaborate with influencers, participate in events, and leverage email

marketing for customer outreach.

Sales Channels: Utilize direct sales, wholesale partnerships, and online

marketplaces to reach diverse audiences.

Customer Engagement: Provide excellent customer service, gather feedback,

and offer loyalty programs to build lasting relationships.

Branding and Packaging: Develop a cohesive visual identity and use attractive,
eco-friendly packaging.

Community Building: Engage with local and online communities of pottery

enthusiasts to foster connections and loyalty.
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Challenges
Challenges in the pottery industry can affect both individual potters and
businesses involved in ceramic production. Here are key challenges faced by
those in the pottery field:

1. High Material Costs: Clay, glazes, and kiln firing can be costly, affecting
profit margins, especially for small-scale potters.

2. Skill Development: Mastering pottery techniques requires continuous

learning and practice, which can be time-consuming and challenging.

3. Competition: The market can be saturated with mass-produced ceramics,

making it difficult for handmade pottery to stand out.

4. Marketing and Sales: Promoting and selling pottery products requires

effective marketing strategies and a strong online presence, which can be
challenging for some artists.

5. Production Efficiency: Balancing creativity with production efficiency can be

tricky, especially when fulfilling large orders or meeting deadlines.

6. Environmental Impact: Pottery production involves kiln firing, which

consumes energy and can generate emissions, posing environmental
challenges.

7. Economic Factors: Fluctuations in the economy can impact discretionary

spending on luxury or decorative items like pottery.
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Requirements

Materials:

Clay (different types like earthenware, stoneware, porcelain)

Glazes and underglazes for coloring pottery

Kiln for firing pottery pieces

Tools and Equipment:

Potter's wheel for wheel-throwing

Hand-building tools like rolling pins and carving tools

Kiln (electric or gas) for firing pottery

Skills:

Pottery techniques: Wheel-throwing and hand-building

Understanding clay properties and glazing techniques

Workspace:

Dedicated pottery studio with proper ventilation

Work surfaces and storage for materials

Safety Equipment:

Protective gear: Aprons, gloves, goggles for safety during pottery

work

Creativity and Passion:

Imagination and enthusiasm for creating pottery designs

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Suggestions
Diversify Product Range: Expand the range of products to cater to
different market segments and consumer preferences. This could
include both traditional and contemporary designs to appeal to a
wider audience.

Value Addition: Explore ways to add value to products through

innovative designs, quality craftsmanship, and customization
options. This can help command higher prices and attract more
customers.

Market Research and Marketing: Conduct market research to

understand consumer trends and preferences. Utilize this
information to develop targeted marketing strategies, including
online platforms, social media, and participation in trade fairs and
exhibitions.

Collaborations and Partnerships: Form partnerships with local

businesses, retailers, and e-commerce platforms to reach new
markets and increase sales opportunities. Collaborate with designers
and artists to create unique and trendy products.

Training and Skill Development: Invest in continuous training and

skill development programs to enhance craftsmanship, learn new
techniques, and stay updated with market trends. This could include
workshops, skill-sharing sessions, and access to online resources.

Infrastructure and Technology Upgrade: Upgrade workshop

facilities with modern tools and equipment to improve efficiency,
productivity, and product quality. Embrace eco-friendly practices and
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sustainable production methods to appeal to environmentally

conscious consumers.

Access to Finance and Support Services: Explore avenues for

accessing financial assistance, credit facilities, and government
schemes tailored for artisans and small businesses. Seek support
from NGOs, cooperatives, and industry associations for capacity
building and networking opportunities.

Customer Engagement and Feedback: Establish strong

relationships with customers by providing excellent customer
service, addressing feedback, and maintaining transparency in
business operations. Encourage repeat purchases and referrals
through loyalty programs and incentives.

Online Platforms: Utilize online platforms such as e-commerce

websites, social media, and artisan marketplaces to reach a broader
audience beyond Kerala. This allows them to showcase your
products to customers worldwide.
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Question and Answers

1. How did you get started in pottery? What drew you to this craft?

*Answer:* "I started my journey in pottery over five decades ago when I
attended a local ceramics workshop. The tactile nature of clay and the
meditative process of creating pottery immediately captivated me. It became a
lifelong passion and a way to express my creativity."

2. Can you describe your creative process? Where do you find inspiration for
your pottery designs?

*Answer:* "My creative process often begins with observations from nature
and everyday life. I draw inspiration from the patterns of leaves, the textures
of rocks, and the movement of water. These elements influence my designs
and guide my hands as I work with clay."

3. What types of clay and materials do you prefer to work with, and why?

*Answer:* "Over the years, I've come to prefer stoneware clay for its
durability and versatility. It's well-suited for functional pieces that can
withstand everyday use. I also enjoy experimenting with different glazes to
achieve unique effects that complement the form of each piece."

4. Could you explain the different techniques you use in your pottery? (e.g.,
wheel throwing, hand-building)
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*Answer:* "I primarily use wheel throwing for creating my vessels like bowls
and mugs. Hand-building techniques such as coiling and slab construction are
also part of my repertoire, especially for sculptural pieces and larger forms."

5. How do you approach glazing and firing your pottery pieces?

*Answer:* "Glazing is an art in itself. I carefully select glazes that enhance the
character of each piece and apply them with attention to detail. Firing is a
critical step; I use a gas kiln for its ability to produce unique atmospheric
effects, adding depth to the final finish."

6. What challenges do you face as a potter, and how do you overcome them?

*Answer:* "As a seasoned potter, consistency and physical demands can be

challenging. To maintain consistency, I keep meticulous records of firing
schedules and glaze formulas. Embracing the inherent variability of handmade
pottery has helped me appreciate each piece's unique qualities."

7. Can you share a memorable or favorite piece that you've created? What
makes it special to you?

*Answer:* "One of my favorite pieces is a large ceramic vase inspired by the

landscape of my childhood. It embodies the essence of nostalgia and
craftsmanship, reflecting my evolution as an artist over the years."

8. Are there any particular artists or styles that have influenced your work?
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*Answer:* "I've always admired the simplicity and rustic elegance of

traditional Japanese pottery, particularly the philosophy of wabi-sabi.
Influential potters like Shoji Hamada and Lucie Rie have also shaped my
approach to form and functionality."

9. How do you balance functionality and aesthetics in your pottery?

*Answer:* "Functionality is at the heart of my work. I strive to create pottery

that is not only visually appealing but also practical for everyday use. This
balance is achieved through careful consideration of form, proportion, and
surface treatment."

10. What advice would you give to someone interested in starting pottery as a
hobby or career?

*Answer:* "For aspiring potters, I recommend starting with the

fundamentals—take classes, practice consistently, and embrace the learning
process. Joining a pottery community can provide invaluable support and
inspiration. Remember, pottery is a lifelong journey of discovery and
creativity."
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Conclusion
In summary, pottery is a fascinating blend of tradition and creativity.
Throughout this report, we've explored its long history and how it's
evolved into a popular craft today.

Pottery requires both technical skill and artistic vision. Artists need to
understand different materials and techniques, as well as how to fire
clay to create beautiful and functional pieces. Our study has shown
the care and creativity that go into every pottery item.

Pottery isn't just art; it's also a reflection of culture. From ancient
times to modern days, pottery has been used for ceremonies, daily
use, and decoration, offering insights into different societies and
their values.

As we wrap up, it's clear that pottery remains a vibrant craft loved by
many. It connects us with the past and inspires new forms of art
today.

In conclusion, let's appreciate the beauty of handmade pottery, the

cleverness of ancient methods, and the endless possibilities of clay.
Pottery is a testament to human creativity and culture that continues
to captivate us.