Introduction:
Neolithic man refers to the people living during the Neolithic period, which is also known as the New Stone Age. This period marked a significant transition in human history, as it saw the development of agriculture and the domestication of animals. Along with these advancements, Neolithic man also engaged in various artistic activities. One of the prominent art forms that they learned was the creation of hand-made pottery, which was then dried in the sun and later perfected using the wheel.

Explanation:
The Neolithic period witnessed a shift from a nomadic lifestyle to settled communities. With a stable source of food and a more permanent settlement, humans began exploring different forms of artistic expression. The creation of pottery was one such artistic pursuit.

1. Hand-made pottery:
During the early stages of pottery making, Neolithic man crafted vessels and containers by hand. This involved shaping the clay with their hands and using simple tools like sticks or shells to manipulate the clay into desired forms. The clay used for pottery was usually sourced from riverbanks or other areas with abundant clay deposits.

2. Drying in the sun:
Once the pottery was shaped, it was left to dry in the sun. The sun's heat would gradually evaporate the moisture from the clay, causing it to harden. This step was crucial as it prepared the pottery for further refinement and prevented it from cracking during the firing process.

3. Introduction of the wheel:
As civilization progressed, Neolithic man developed the wheel, which revolutionized the art of pottery making. The potter's wheel allowed for more precise shaping and enhanced efficiency in creating pottery. By spinning the wheel and manipulating the clay, potters could produce symmetrical and well-balanced vessels.

4. Advantages of using the wheel:
The introduction of the wheel brought several advantages to the pottery-making process. It increased productivity, allowing potters to create more pieces in less time. The wheel also facilitated the production of uniform vessels, which were aesthetically pleasing and functional.

5. Firing the pottery:
After the pottery was shaped on the wheel, it was fired in a kiln or an open fire. Firing involved subjecting the pottery to high temperatures, which caused chemical changes in the clay and transformed it into a durable, hardened material. This step was essential to make the pottery water-resistant and suitable for various purposes.

Conclusion:
The art of pottery making, which was learned by Neolithic man, involved crafting vessels by hand, drying them in the sun, and later using the wheel to enhance the precision and efficiency of the process. The development of pottery was a significant cultural and artistic achievement during the Neolithic period, and it played a vital role in the advancement of human civilization.