Form and Function Series
Ceramic Aesthetics and Design

with Robin Hopper

This five program series shows how to make a wide range of pots that work well in the home. Each video is full of detailed demonstrations and close-ups of a master potter at work. The series extends and complements Robin's popular book, Functional Pottery. The series includes the following five programs:

Elements of Form
Lids and Terminations
Spouts and Handles
Pots for Eating and Drinking
Pots for Cooking and Serving
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"In his latest video series, Robin continues his strong tradition of giving potters exactly what they want - lots of solid information, well presented and a pleasure to watch. I give these five tapes my highest recommendation for anyone interested in learning about form and structure, all the parts and details of good pots as well as how to make specific forms." (Bill Hunt, Ceramics Monthly Editor, 1982-94)

"Each video has great value on its own but as a set it gives a complete understanding of the multitude of issues that face the maker of good quality functional pottery. These are high quality videos that are an ideal teaching tool for either an individual or in a class situation. They raise issues that challenge and teach even the experienced maker of functional ware." (Pottery in Australia)


Elements of Form
(30 minutes)

Provides an introduction and overview to form and design; geometric form; integrated form; proportion and relationships; the Golden Mean; mathematics and nature; organic form; classical form. functional considerations for pots that work well in the home.

This program is included in the Form and Function Series.

"A good introduction to pottery." (Video Rating Guide for Libraries)

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Lids and Terminations
(51 minutes)

Shows how to design and make top and bottom terminations; specifically lips, feet and lids, their styles and variations and how these details relate to the overall form of a pot. Includes extensive working studio demonstrations along with many examples of how different potters use these details.

This program is included in the Form and Function Series.

"An excellent production practically anyone will appreciate . . . . Virtually flawless in all its parts . . . . The presentation is . . . well balanced, clear, logical, and visually fascinating . . . . Don't miss this exceptional video." (Video Rating Guide for Libraries)

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Spouts and Handles
(50 minutes)

Shows how to design and make spouts, finials and handles, and how these details adapt and contrast to the overall form. Includes extensive working studio demonstrations along with many examples of how different potters use these details. The emphasis is on spouts that pour well and handles that feel good to hold.

This program is included in the Form and Function Series.

"For an instructional video on pottery, this production is very good . . . . Highly recommended . . . ." (Video Rating Guide for Libraries)

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Pots for Eating and Drinking
(36 minutes)

Presents design concepts and making processes for tableware: plates and bowls and drinking vessels such as mugs, cups and saucers, goblets and tea bowls. Examples of a range of dinnerware styles from well-known potters are presented for viewing. Practical, functional ware is emphasized.

This program is included in the Form and Function Series.

"Hopper's guidance on design and function of tableware merits serious attention." (Video Rating Guide for Libraries)

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Pots for Cooking and Serving
(50 minutes)

Presents design concepts and making processes for pitchers, jugs, teapots, wine and liqueur decanters, sake bottles, sauce boats, casseroles, steamers, bakers, serving vessels and pots made for storage. Examples of work by many potters are reviewed. Plenty of hands-on demonstrations are featured throughout.

This program is included in the Form and Function Series.

"Interesting, informative, and even inspiring . . . . Highly recommended . . . ." (Video Rating Guide for Libraries)

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