Elementary

How can everyday objects become bold, expressive works of art?

Students will explore Pop Art and contemporary food artists by creating colorful clay donuts inspired by the style of artists like Claes Oldenburg and contemporary ceramicists such as Jae Yong Kim. Students will focus on color, texture, and playful exaggeration.

• low-fire clay
• clay tools
• slip and water containers
• acrylic paint
• paintbrushes
• optional: gloss varnish/spray

Step 1
Introduce students to the Pop Art movement. Show works by Claes Oldenburg, who made giant sculptures of everyday objects, and contemporary ceramic artist Jae Yong Kim, known for his intricately painted donut sculptures. Discuss how color, repetition, and scale are used to transform the ordinary into the extraordinary.

Step 2
Ask students to sketch their own donut design. Encourage wild colors, imaginative toppings, and patterns that emphasize fun and individuality.

Step 3
Distribute clay, slip and containers, and clay tools. Demonstrate how to form a donut using the coil and pinch method or by shaping two flattened clay discs with a hole in the center.

Step 4
Have students form their donuts, then have them use the provided tools to add texture and sculpt icing, sprinkles, or even “gummy worms.”

Step 5
After bisque-firing, students paint their donuts using bright acrylics. Encourage them to mimic the bold, glossy look of Pop Art using color blocking, high contrast, and graphic patterns. Optional: finish with gloss varnish for a shiny, glazed look.

Students will be assessed on creativity, artistry, and their ability to apply Pop Art principles. Emphasis is placed on color choice, sculptural detail, and playful exaggeration.

Kristina Latraverse is the founder and lead instructor at Seagrass Pottery in Indialantic, Florida.