As art, craft, or design, ceramics is a commodity in the art marketplace. However, in this market the question of the value of the medium as an art form is crucial. For ceramics to achieve a strong position in the market, perceptions of the value of ceramic art need to be changed so that it can emerge as a form of sculpture on an equal footing with other forms of arstic expression. Ceramic art has a long and glorious history in civilization, yet art can be forgotten or slip from the artistic mainstream when it is not kept in the forefront of public attention. This thesis explores whether there are objective criteria for valuing art according to its form or genre and where ceramics and other so-called crafts stand on this continuum. It also discusses the history of modem ceramics, beginning with the Arts and Crafts Movement of the mid nineteenth century, and discusses the status of ceramics in the art market today. Finally, the thesis suggests that the time is right for a third arts and crafts movement and makes specific suggestions for how ceramic artists, dealers, and collectors can irnprove the perception and market positionn of ceramic art.
Ⅰ. Introduction: Arts, Crafts, and Design A. People' s Current Perceptions of Arts and Crafts Ⅱ. Ceramic Art as Lifestyle & Work Style A. Contemporary ceramic art from infancy to puberty B. Position of ceramics in the world of fine arts Ⅲ. Current State of and Outlook for Ceramic Art A. The evolution and status of ceramic art in art education Ⅳ. Challenges and opportunities in the ceramic art marke A. Auction Houses B. Art Fairs: SOFA, Palm Beach, and Art Miami C. Galleries and pricing D. Museurns: The validation of ceramics as art through museum exhibitions E. Shops selling signed works by ceramic artists F. Media coverage and influence G. Dealers H. Collectors Ⅴ. Conclusion Appendix B: Survey Data Bibliography