Tabletop Fountain Pumps

This link:
does not say how to order but visual of the whole kit

new pump vinyl tubing sold separately

I like the idea of a simple cup but I am mindful that the cup needs not be too deep to fill up an spill over flow with the water... as in the one below... (minus the sphere in the center) although the center of the cup would hold some sort of sculptural piece. I also 

I like the idea of incorporating rocks and shells into the "Saucer portion" of the cup

I really like the idea of tiered cups but then again this would only be viewed from the front... maybe I want something that can be viewed in 3d?

This is almost too rustic and haphazard but it illustrates how rocks can be added to the form. Instead of the seated figure I would rather use something like a small boat or a bird

Stuff

Dad Likes his new personal teapot!

Reflections on Handbuilding Techniques & Elective Courses

Recently I have been thinking about my students and asking myself some questions:

1. What do students "expect" when they elect to take Ceramics?
2. How do they imagine the time is class will be structured or do they believe it is not structured in any way?
3. Do students perhaps think that working with clay (earthenware or stoneware) is going to be similar to working with something like play dough?
4. If the answer to the question above is yes.. clay is like play dough then do they think that there is really nothing to learn from an expert?
5. Do students realize that handbuilding techniques are "tried and true" and have been practiced throughout the ages?
6. Why are correct handbuilding technique necessary for the successful outcome of a peice of pottery form out of clay?