SURVEY OF CERAMIC PRODUCTION IN SINGAPORE

Abstract

Ceramics consists of a wide and diversified range of products which differ in terms of types of raw materials, methods of production and uses. In this study, six different types of ceramic production have been identified on the basis of two criteria - raw material and manufacturing process. The six types are bricks and tiles, flower-pots, studio pottery, decorative pottery, new/technical ceramics and sanitary ceramics. All are carried out by firms except for studio pottery which is undertaken by individuals. The survey covers each and every type of ceramic production with more attention paid on those which use mainly local clay. The development of local ceramic production can be attributed to three main factors—raw material, expertise, and market, although in particular cases other factors may exercise their influence. Raw material, or to be more specific the availability of local ceramic clay, is the major factor which gives rise to the development of the following three types of ceramic production: bricks and tiles, flower-pots and studio pottery. Upon examining the relationship between the location of brickworks and that of the establishments which produce flower-pots and the geology of Singapore, it is found that the former had been influenced by the presence of suitable ceramic clays. Local ceramic production generally has potential for expansion, though at different degrees, in view of the indispensability of ceramics in homes, industry and construction. The prospects are, however, different for various types of ceramic production. In particular, ths continuation of the traditional potteries which produce ?.lower-pots are threatened by resettlement projects. Little encouragement and support have also led to the decreasing popularity of studio pottery. Apart from these two types, the future of local ceramic production is generally bright.