Art & Science of Materials
Course Description:
This year long interdisciplinary curriculum is focused on studying the properties and capacities of manufacturing materials of ceramics, polymers, metals and composites through the lens of Chemistry and Art. In the Chemistry lab students learn about the chemical and physical properties of these materials and in the Art studio students manipulate the materials creatively.
Crystals
Chemistry content: crystalline structure of solids for ionic compounds and pure elements.
Art Projects: drawing, painting and photographing crystals.
Ceramics : Clay + Glass
Chemistry content: we will look at how glass and ceramics are made and their properties. Also, how they are used in industry.
Clay Art Projects: Raku pinch pots (reduction / oxidation), Dimensional tile prototypes (for year-long manufacturing thread including 3d printing, latex mold making and cement casting of final wall tiles)
Glass Art Projects: Fused glass tiles, lamp working - glass beads
Polymers
Chemistry Content: how polymers are used in industry and their wide range of properties. We will make several polymers.
Art Projects: Latex mold making, 3d print SLA resin prints, 3d printed lampshades
Metals
Chemistry content: the properties of metals and alloys. How the grain structure can be manipulated with heat treatment and cold working.
Art Projects: Silversmithing - silver jewelry (rings, pendants, earrings), metal etching
Composites
Chemistry content: measuring strength of various composites
Art Projects: Small concrete items (planters/ tiles / stepping stones) and concrete furnishings (benches / tables / sinks).
