What’s the difference between ceramics and pottery?

What’s the difference between ceramics and pottery? 

If you’ve ever found yourself searching for a pottery class in Barcelona or a ceramic studio in Barcelona, you might have found yourself wondering: what’s the difference between pottery and ceramics? While these terms often overlap, they signify distinct approaches to working with clay, each with its own traditions, intentions, and philosophies.

In our Barcelona studio, while we embrace functional pottery, there is more of a focus on artistic ceramics and indeed our founder Corrie’s work is sculptural and conceptual. In our weekly classes, we provide support and guidance for students to explore their creative visions – whether that is making a dinner set or creating idea-driven work. 

Let’s take a look at the nuances of pottery and ceramics, hear the perspective of some renowned ceramicists, and look at some of the cultural forces that have shaped how we perceive craft and art.

Pottery: the craft of functionality

Fundamentally, pottery is the art of creating functional objects designed for daily use. Plates, bowls, mugs, and vases all fall within this realm, with utility serving as a central guiding principle. British potters Michael Cardew and Bernard Leach espoused this commitment to functional, handmade pottery and had a big influence on 20th-century ceramics.

Their emphasis on pottery as a functional craft rather than a purely artistic pursuit aligns with the Arts and Crafts movement’s ideals, which advocated for the preservation of handmade traditions in an increasingly industrialised world.

Pottery is deeply tied to the tactile experience of shaping clay and the satisfaction of creating items that are as practical as they are beautiful. The pottery classes in our Barcelona studio teach traditional techniques like wheel-throwing and hand-building to create items for everyday use.

Ceramics: the art of expression

While pottery emphasizes function, ceramics is an expression of conceptual and artistic exploration. The word ceramics is generally used to describe sculptural works, installations, or experimental forms inspired by ideas,aesthetics, or emotions over practical use. This perspective highlights clay as a medium for storytelling, experimentation, and pushing creative boundaries.

The distinction between pottery and ceramics is not just about form and function—it also ties into a broader cultural debate about the divide between craft and art. Historically, craft has been associated with practicality and domesticity, while art has been seen as intellectual and elite. This divide has often reflected patriarchal values, where “art” was dominated by men and celebrated in galleries, while “craft” was relegated to women’s work in the home.

However, some of the most celebrated ceramicists reject this dichotomy. Magdalene Odundo draws a direct connection between functional pottery and ceramics, arguing, ““A cooking pot is there not just to contain nourishment. People have always made beautiful pots to enhance that humanity. People want to eat and cook from beautiful vessels, because all these activities – cooking, prayer, meditation – are associated with the inner part of ourselves.”

Why does the distinction between pottery and ceramics matter?

For one, it highlights the diverse possibilities of working with clay. Pottery connects us to a rich tradition of creating objects for everyday use, while ceramics invites us to explore the potential of clay as an artistic medium.

But more importantly, this debate challenges us to question societal biases about what is considered “worthy” of artistic recognition. By valuing both pottery and ceramics equally, we honour the skill, creativity, and vision that goes into all forms of clay work.

At Corrie Bain International Ceramics School, we believe that functional pottery and conceptual ceramics are equally valid and valuable forms of creative expression. Our studio is a space where traditional and contemporary approaches coexist, and students are encouraged to explore clay in whatever way resonates with them.

A place for every maker

Every maker’s journey is unique, so whether you’re inspired by the elegance of functional forms or the limitless possibilities of abstract creations, our studio provides a welcoming and supportive environment for all.

In our pottery classes in Barcelona, you’ll learn the foundational techniques needed to craft practical pieces that are both beautiful and durable. Meanwhile, our ceramic studio in Barcelona also serves as a space for experimentation. Our founder Corrie has a fine arts background, and so there is an emphasis on encouraging students to push boundaries, explore ideas, and bring their artistic visions to life. 

Our classes are led by professional artists who bring their expertise, passion, and respect for both disciplines to every session. Whether you’re a beginner eager to try wheel-throwing for the first time or an experienced maker diving into conceptual work, you’ll find the tools, guidance, and creative community you need to thrive.

Start your creative journey 

Whether your goal is to create a handmade dinner set or explore abstract ideas through sculpture, Corrie Bain International Ceramics School is here to support you every step of the way. Our pottery classes in Barcelona and open ceramics studio in Barcelona offer a space for learning, exploration, and connection.

Join us to discover the joy of working with clay, the freedom to express yourself, and the satisfaction of creating something meaningful—whether it’s practical, conceptual, or a bit of both.

All ceramic work featured was made by students during their 3 month intensive ceramics course which ran in spring 2025.