Professional Development: Beyond the Studio (Shortstack)

Have you ever made work you’re proud of… and then immediately gotten stuck on everything that comes after? Writing about it, photographing it, applying to shows or residencies—it can feel like a whole separate skill set no one actually teaches you.

This class is about that gap.

We’ll work through how to write about your practice in a way that actually sounds like you (not like an academic robot), how to apply to exhibitions and opportunities without overthinking it, and how to photograph your work so it catches the eye of those who see it. We’ll also talk honestly about the many different paths in the ceramic arts—what exists, what’s realistic, and how to start carving out your own version of it.

A lot of people say “just make the work” like the rest will magically fall into place. It doesn’t. This class is about all the in-between stuff—the skills, shortcuts, and workarounds that make it easier to get your work seen and taken seriously, without losing your voice in the process.

Don’t worry, this class is designed so you can work on your clay projects independently while learning the skills you need to get the work out of the studio, and into a gallery. 

During this course you will learn to make an artist statement, biography, resume, take photos of your work, & will apply to one show/gallery/scholarship/grant of your choice! 

After this class you’ll not just be making the work—you will be getting it out into the world.

This class is intended for All Levels ceramic students, but if you are newer, have passion and dedication, then please join us in this fabulous class. 

Learn more about instructor Jessica Mercy.

We believe clay is for everyone! Need tuition assistance? Please visit our tuition assistance page for more information.

What’s Included:

• 1 bag of Reclaim (pick-up first day of class).
• Access to use our studio during open studio hours to work on your projects in-between classes. Open Studio times are daily from 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM.
• Personal half-shelf for storage of tools, clay, and in process work.

What to Bring:

• Basic Pottery Toolkit (should include a cut off wire, wooden knife, wooden rib, metal rib, needle tool, sponge, trimming loop tool and double-ended ribbon tool.)
• Apron or clothes that can get dirty are recommended.

**Pottery Northwest has communal tools available for everyone’s use if you cannot afford to buy your own tool kit. Personal tool kits and additional clay can be purchased at the online student store.