The Ceramics emphasis area in the Department of Art at The Ohio State University is one of the oldest, most complete, and diverse programs in the country. Its history includes many artists important to 20th century ceramics. The staff consists of two faculty members, a full-time shop supervisor, and visiting artists and lecturers who teach and interact with students throughout the year. Each student is encouraged through a supportive environment to develop a particular aesthetic that relies on persistent curiosity and hard work. Students in the area are exposed to a wide range of traditional and contemporary concepts and techniques, and are encouraged to take independent study hours with visiting artists and faculty throughout the Department of Art. Scheduled group critiques with graduate students and faculty are productive vehicles for understanding each other's work and for discussing tangents and issues relevant to all aspects of art making.