About the Ph.D Award Based on Contribution to Knowledge by Existing Exhibited and Published Works

by Rosette Ford Gault

This formal academic document traces research history and background of paperclay that is behind the recent book Paperclay Art and Practice, The significance and influence of Gaults published and exhibited work is traced in context of developments in the field of paperclay ceramics both from aesthetic and technical view. Developments in art and materials science collaboration with late Dr. David Kingery and others are explained in brief. Gaults search and disccovery process over 40 plus years is noted with a portfolio of artworks included.

It is written for to inform anyone- artist, materials science of engineer seeking academic degree of any kind in this field. The history and background context before the internet including Gaults 20 years of trial to isolate and identify the universal principles governing interaction between clays and pulp. The innovation allowed anyone to convert local clay body/ with local recyled or virgin pulp formulation to get advantages like wet to dry assembly, savings time and money in drying, assembly, firing and glaze that led to a process patent issued in1998. Worldwide spread and 20 more years subsequent spin off and contribution that would establish the field.

The principle behind Gaults vision of a nano scale 3D interior architectural network of nano scale cellulose fiber and how/why/when it can be managed and regulated is illustrated and explained. The priniciple locus of nano scale interaction between organic (plant sources of cellulose fibers- are natural polymers) and inorganic chemistry/thermodynamics/ (minerals in ceramic materials, is illustrated for to assist with entry points for research ahead in sustainable materials, nano-porous ceramic, medicine, applied design and industrial application.

Link to Abstract

Digital version in PDF of this (54MB download) document (130 pp color academic document of 10,000 words plus research appendices, color portolio of artworks, charts, and diagrams.) Digital PDF is $10.00 - order with PayPal ISBN 978-0-9825736-8-6

Contact me by email for Print version

The thesis was submitted as partial fulfillment of the requirements for a Ph.D degree in UK England. Requirements in addition included formal "viva voce" oral examination and defense to satisfy teams of art design and ceramic materials scholars inside and outside the university.

The LIbrary of Art and Design at the National Center for Ceramics and Glass, University of Sunderland, Sunderland, England, UK has a leatherbound printed copy.