ART MAT TERS
Magazine of The Art Center of Western Colorado Volume 7, Issue 4 Fall 2022
Family Health West was built from the ground up by our community – settled with health and prosperity in mind. Today, we look forward to the future, approaching new horizons in healthcare while taking forward that same spirit of dreaming to create a beautiful tomorrow we all believe is possible.
FHW.org/Rose
Art Matters
Director's Letter About The Art Center Announcements Exhibitions
The Plants We Live With Envisage Naturae Recent Acquisitions AIR: Mesa County Libraries Artist in Residence Exhibition Mexican Roots Raven Mavens Out of the Void Works on Paper Locals: Cup Invitational Art From The Heart
Events
Art Center Art Excursions Music in the Grapevines Annual Pottery Sale
Youth & Teen Education
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Youth
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Collection Corner Adult Education
24-25
Workshops Adult Classes Ceramics How to Enroll
On The Cover: Forrest Zerbe, Untitled Art Matters Fall 2022 gjartcenter.org
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Let’s talk Art Excursion Tours! A couple of years ago, I was visiting with Dr. Peter Booth and Zebulon Miracle, both of whom are experts in the history of the Southwest and both of whom are lovers of art and culture. They’re also expert tour guides. They were both willing and excited to start leading tours again. So, we decided to kick off our Art Center Art Excursion series in the spring of 2020. Well, the pandemic had other plans, so our excursions had to be put on the back burner until the fall of 2021. Our first tour was in September 2021 - an amazing trip to New Mexico and Arizona to visit historic trading posts, Dinétah, Hopi, and Zuni reservations, and several ancient rock art sites. In December, Dr. Booth took a group of Art Center members to Taos and Santa Fe, New Mexico, for a trip over the high road. In May of 2022 we traveled with a group of adventurers to visit the historic pubs of Telluride, and in June Dr. Booth took a group to see historic mountain theatres, along with productions of Singing in the Rain and Jersey Boys. We also had a day trip to the Dominguez Canyon to view rock art. We have several more exciting trips planned for 2022. In September, we have three trips planned. We’ve scheduled a trip catered exclusively for painters who want to learn more about painting in the great outdoors – a San Juan Mountains Plein Air Workshop with Loren Eakins. Then, a day-trip tour of Escalante Canyon, Zebulon Miracle will share his vast knowledge of the region and its rock art left by indigenous people centuries ago. And a tour of the National Park Grand Circle; this wondrous journey explores the grandeur and splendor of the North Rim of the Grand Canyon, Zion, and Bryce Canyon national parks. We’re offering a Moab Rock Art Trip with Zebulon Miracle in October and, to close out the 2022 season, join us in December for the Grand Canyon by Train in the Holidays. This Holiday excursion will go to the Grand Canyon with its natural wonders wrapped in a winter splendor. We will view the Canyon in first-class luxury on the Grand Canyon Railroad and stay at the legendary El Tovar Hotel. We’re making plans for our 2023 Art Excursion season, and I know we’ll have offerings for almost everyone. I’ve personally gone on two of our excursions, and they were the highlights of my year. I just know that you’ll have a great time, just like I did. So please make plans to join us on one of our Members-Only tours. Space is limited, so sign up soon so you don’t miss out!
Lee Borden, Executive Director 4|
WELCOME
Our Mission: The Art Center of Western Colorado is a regional arts organization dedicated to enriching lives by promoting the enjoyment and understanding of the arts.
Board of Trustees
Ronya Anna - President Dr. Michael Neste - Vice President David Price - 2nd Vice President Terri Chinn - Treasurer Anita Pisciotte - Secretary Gisela Ferguson Ajay Gustafson Joseph Gonzales Kendra McDaniel Lynne O’Connell Sheri Ray Mykan White Cathy Zippert – Art Center Guild President
Art Center Staff Lee Borden
Executive Director
Matt Jones
Curator, Programs & Exhibitions
Rachel Egelston
Director of Youth Education & Art for All
Terry Shepherd
Artist-in-Residence, Ceramics Director
Damien Sweet
Membership & Gift Gallery Coordinator
Haley Van Camp
Design and Communications Manager
Charley Gordon
Facilities Manager & Exhibition Preparator
Anna Walters Accounting
Sarah Dishong Gift Gallery
Art Center Hours 9am to 4pm Tuesday through Saturday Admission $3 (free to members and children under 12) There is no charge to visit the Gift Gallery Tuesdays are free to everyone thanks to a generous sponsorship by Home Loan & Nationwide Insurance
Operational funding provided in part by
ABOUT US
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A message from
the Art Center of Western Colorado’s Endowment Foundation Board: The Endowment Foundation’s mission is to keep our beloved Art Center financially healthy and able to fulfill its mission of providing the highest quality of art programming for our community. Most of us have been involved at The Art Center for years and have seen it grow into the vibrant center for creativity that it is today. In order to ensure many more tomorrows at The Art Center, the Foundation Board maintains an endowment fund that uses investment earnings to support the day-to-day operation of our Center. We are also the caretakers of many pieces of art in the Permanent Collection, including most of the Native American weavings and several paintings and works of sculpture. We are asking you to consider a donation to our Endowment Fund which can be done in three ways: 1. an outright donation, 2. a bequest in your will, or 3. another form of planned giving. Your gift will ensure that our Art Center continues to grow and thrive. Thank you! Gayle Gerson, Acting President of The Art Center of Western Colorado’s Endowment Foundation Board 6 | ANNOUNCEMENTS
Thank you to our major supporters! Gallery sponsors:
Gould Gallery - Chuck & Robbie Breaux Studio Colorado - Dr. Michael Neste & Family Health West North Gallery - Timberline Bank Atrium Gallery - Your Name Here
Exhibition 2022 sponsors: Chuck and Kendra McDaniel Dean and Mary Harris Chuck and Patti Shear / Shear Inc The Ron Beckman Estate Bernie and Mary Beth Buescher
Friend, Supporter, Champion, and Title Supporters: Judy and Don Allerheiligen Barbara Alpha Kay & Lee Ambrose Robert Armstrong Judith & Dr. Stephen Axthelm Laura May Bacon Chuck & Robbie Breaux Lynn Brownson Bernie and Mary Beth Buescher George & Judy Callison Terri Chinn Gaynell & Doug Colaric Karen Combs Steve and Sibylle Doyle Patricia Feinberg William Findlay Jeremy R Franklin Harry & Joanie Griff Jack Griggs Glen & Evelyn Haley Dean & Mary Harris Jill & Bill Hilty Robert & Lou Jenkins Anita Johnson Ken Johnson Melissa & Phil Jones Pat Kephart Karen & Dennis Kiefer Ruth & Terry Leever Luis & Maggie Lopez Bob & Kathy Martin Linda McBride Terry & Marty McDaneld Chuck & Kendra McDaniel Jean McIntyre
Janet McRae Juliah Menconi Don Meyers Bill Milius Carole Moritz Donald Neal Gloria Nedved Clifford & Judith Neste Dr. Michael Neste Lynne O'Connell Carol Oglesby Brian & Joyce Olson Sharyl & Bob Peterson Anita Pisciotte Peggy Pretti Tony & Sally Prinster Jonathan Purdy Beck Ritter Sue Samuelson Pam Scala Dick & Sharon Scariano Carole Sneddon Jim Sebela & Nina Williams Chuck & Patti Shear Gail and Barry Tuohig Paul & Bonnie Van Camp Judy Vanderleest & Andy Kelley Georgie Weir Cheryl and Dan Wenzinger Del & Joe Wharton George Wheeler Carolyn White & Robert Noble Mykan White & Dr. Caleb Stepan Holly Wilson
Wilson Family Lawrence Wild Dr. Tonya Wren Advanced Skin Care and Laser Center LLC Alpine Bank The Art Center Guild The Art Quilt Association The Christi Reece Group Colorado Creative Industries City of GJ Commission on Arts and Culture Family Health West Grand Valley Books Grand Valley Creative Alliance Harold & Ruth Moss Charitable Foundation Home Loan & Investment McBride Family Foundation Omega Realty Peggy Foster Estate The Ron Beckman Estate Timberline Bank WCCA Endowment Foundation William & Mai Robinson Charitable Trust ANNOUNCEMENTS | 7
Plants Live With
The We
An Exhibition of Photography by Forrest Zerbe August 5-27 Forrest Zerbe's Biography: "The arts have always played a major role in my life. I grew up in a family that held education and culture in high esteem. As a youth, I spent a lot of my time working in the woodshop and darkroom. I loved these two places because they allowed me to be creative and work with my hands. My undergraduate years were spent studying a variety of subjects and discovering my passions. I finished my undergraduate degree with an emphasis in woodworking and decided to attend graduate school at Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) for furniture design. "I never stopped doing photography, but it would take venturing back into the darkroom at SCAD for formal photography
courses for me to decide that it would be my primary medium and focus moving forward. I devoted my time and energy to mastering the techniques of the art form and enjoyed being back in the darkroom. I earned my MFA in Photography from SCAD and spent the next six years traveling and working as a professional photographer. My bread and butter was portraiture, but I also did commercial product photography and website construction. I had the privilege of being a part of the photography industry during the early 2000s when technology revolutionized the art form. I began teaching at Colorado Mesa University in the Art & Design Department in 2013. Along with teaching, I still enjoy traveling and my days spent in the darkroom and studio."
Forrest Zerbe, Untitled 8 | EXHIBITIONS
EXHIBITIONS | 9
Envisage Naturae An Exhibition of Painting by Kirk Shiflett August 5-26 Kirk Shiflett’s work is a social commentary on human environments and their encroachment on wildlife habitats. He integrates elements from various painting traditions including abstract and naturalistic wildlife painting. His work is highly detailed and surrealistic in nature. Animals in his compositions take on anthropomorphic qualities as they
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are thrust into cityscapes or made to cope with radical changes to their natural habitats. His work is emotionally stimulating and thought-provoking. His skill with the brush matches the conceptual quality of the work as he marries craft and conception seamlessly into masterfully composed works of art.
Kirk Shiflett, Lost and Found
Shiflett was born in 1961 in Pueblo, Colorado. He began drawing at an early age, and he was captivated by wildlife, nature, and human interaction with it. He spent his childhood along the Arkansas River Valley around Pueblo, Colorado, observing and sketching the local flora and fauna. At 19 he enlisted in the Navy. He retired from this service in 2003, and spent many years abroad in Nova Scotia, British Columbia, Denmark, England, Spain, Azores, Ontario, Germany, Scotland, Italy, the Caribbean, and
many more. During his travels, Shifflet sketched and practiced his talents, enjoying nature and experiencing the world. Later he received a BFA (Cum Laude) in Studio Art at Colorado Mesa University in 2015. His Curriculum Vitae is located at: artofkirkshiflett.com. He received a heart transplant in May 2018. Shifflet lives in Rocky Ford, Colorado, with his wife Rose. They have four children and 12 grandchildren.
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Recent Acquisitions An Exhibition of Recent Acquisitions to the Permanent Collection In Memory of Pat and Tillie Bishop August 5-27 This August The Art Center’s Permanent Collection will host an exhibition of recent acquisitions. This will be the first time these works will be shown as a grouping in this context. Much of the work was acquired through the generous donation of Pat and Tillie Bishop. These works were carefully selected by The Art Center’s Permanent Collection Committee and Board of Trustees. A fundamental aspect of The Art Center’s mission is to dedicate itself to
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the preservation and stewardship of artworks like these that are within our community. This is highly valued by The Art Center staff, the Permanent Collection Committee, and the donors. Without institutions like The Art Center, community volunteers like the Permanent Collection Committee, and the generosity of our members and donors, the preservation and display of such works wouldn’t be possible.
James P Regimbal, Rocky Trails
Image by Pexels from Pixabay
AIR: Mesa County Libraries Artist In Residence Exhibition An Exhibition of Poetry by Caleb Ferganchick and Jill Burkey September 2 – November 11 Join us as we celebrate the art of the spoken word through verse, rhymes, and balladry. This year the Mesa County Libraries Artist In Residence (AIR) Program exhibition will feature poets Caleb Ferganchick and Jill Burkey. We are excited to highlight the literary arts as part of the creative community. Poems will be displayed in the Atrium Gallery and will be up through November 11.
About the Artist in Residence (AIR) Program Mesa County Libraries provides studio space in the 970West Studio through the Artist In Residence Program. Artists are encouraged to use this fourteen-week residency as an opportunity for growth and development while engaging with the community. EXHIBITIONS | 13
Mexican Roots
Masks, Prints, and Traditional Arts of Mexico From the private collection of Robert Gaston and Elisa Uribe September 2-30
Emphasizing Mexican masks and Oaxacan relief prints, this exhibit explores the thread of similarities that can be traced through the diversity of traditional Mexican artwork.
lead to an erosion of traditional mask making and the associated dances – the persistent, cultural problem of “out with the old and in with the new.” Recently, however, greater cultural awareness and changing attitudes toward indigenous and rural traditions are leading to a resurgence in artistic mask making. While frequently continuing traditional themes, contemporary artists are reaching beyond the mask’s traditional role in creating work both to accompany dances and to appeal to collectors.
The art of Mexico runs like a river through time, recording and connecting its history, people, culture, and religion. Indigenous and traditional themes continue to surface in contemporary artwork of all media, including the masks and prints found in this exhibit. This common bond appears more pronounced than it may be in the more secular, fragmented art Themes of indigenous and histories of other cultures. traditional life in Mexico are Over the last 60 years, the as strong as ever in Mexican modernization of rural Mexico, printmaking, creating a common through better roads, television, bond between these two diverse and internet access, appeared to media. 14 | EXHIBITIONS
Artwork from the collection of Robert Gaston
Raven Mavens
Kathleen Malvern, Ravens' Spirit
An Exhibition of Fiber Arts September 2-30 Artwork drop-off: August 30, 10am - 2pm Group Artist Statement:
and each individual artist has shown pieces in various exhibits Raven Mavens is a Western nationally and internationally. Colorado-based group of phenomenal female artists Many of its members have that began as a critique group. juried exhibits and also taught Historically, the group was technique classes. They have involved in art quilting and, as also received awards for their its members have grown as artists, work. Raven Mavens exhibit has become involved in mixed on an annual basis at The Art media, collage, watercolor, and Center's Members Show and are, 3D creations. They explore many for the second year, selling their unusual techniques and share artwork at the Colorado National these techniques with each other Monument gift store beginning in monthly meetings. The group in September 2022. has been involved in group shows, EXHIBITIONS | 15
Out of the Void
An Exhibition of Painting and Prints by Roger and Martha McCoy September 2 – November 11
Over the last 52 years, Martha and Roger McCoy have profoundly influenced their individual development as artists. This show is about those processes, critiques, and encouragements that have affected their work and who they are. Roger’s work is focused on finding a visual idea that expresses the human condition, while Martha’s art emphasizes her dreams and poetry. The process of making art is the same. They both believe in the importance of having not only an open mind free from any precise outcome, but also one that catches and expresses what is true and hopefully beautiful. It is this attitude that allows them to freely dance with the void of the working surface and to explore the unknown mystery within them, which is both horrific and sublime.
Martha McCoy, Dream Hat 2, detail
Roger’s work tends to be more rational, while Martha’s work leans towards the irrational. A work of art that is strictly rational will only be a lifeless corpse, and work that is solely produced from an irrational point of view will be just a chaotic mess. An insightful image must include its opposite to be consequential. This is one example of where their differences have helped them produce more substantial work and personal growth. This artistic partnership over a lifetime has made them healthier and more psychologically integrated. As Marion Woodman, a psychoanalyst and writer, states:
Roger McCoy, Atonement 16 | EXHIBITIONS
“A life truly lived constantly burns away veils of illusion, burns away what is no longer relevant, gradually reveals our essence, until, at last, we are strong enough to stand in our naked truth.”
CALL FOR ARTISTS
WORKS ON PAPER
August 5-27 Open Entry Exhibition Deadline for Entry, August 2 Drop off August 2, 10am - 2pm Before the invention of paper, artists used stone, clay, plaster, bone, and even wax to create impressive compositions that embodied concepts of nature and beauty. In the ancient world, papyrus imported from Egypt turned the Roman Empire into a flourishing and almost completely literate society. Paper has captured our imaginations and offered us impressions of the past, from detailed drawings in the notebooks of Leonardo da Vinci to the literary works of Charles Dickens. Though its impact is far-reaching, we rarely reflect on how this remarkable innovation has fundamentally transformed our lives for the better. This regional exhibition is open to all two-dimensional artists working on or with paper as a primary material. Categories include watercolor, charcoal, pencil, pastel, mixed medium, and any other medium with paper as a central component of the work. The entry fee for this exhibition is $5 (one entry only, please). Work must be framed and ready to hang unless the work is designed such that framing is not possible and some other format for hanging is provided. We invite artists to participate in this unique opportunity to showcase how paper has transformed your life through the act of creating. EXHIBITIONS | 17
LOCALS Sip, slurp, gulp, or guzzle: Cup Invitational An Exhibition of Ceramics by Regional Ceramic Artists August 5-27
There is a handle for every hand, and size for any beverage, hot or cold. They come in different shapes and sizes and reflect the individuality and character of the artists who formed it. Turned on a wheel, carved, painted, slip-trailed or glazed. This exhibition features a carefully curated group of local ceramic artists working on the Western Slope of Colorado. The cup as a functional aesthetic object has a long rich history and has taken many forms amongst numerous cultures around the world. According to Kakuzo Okakura, “The Philosophy of Tea is not mere aestheticism in the ordinary acceptance of the term, for it expresses conjointly with ethics and religion our whole point of view about man and nature.”
Ashtonn Means, Floral Foot Mug 18 | EXHIBITIONS
Calling All Artists Serving as local Healthcare Workers and Volunteers Sponsored by HopeWest and St. Mary’s Hospital September 2-30 Open Entry Exhibition Artwork Submission Deadline: August 30 Artwork Drop-off: August 30, 10am-2pm Pick-up: October 1, 10am-2pm Join HopeWest for an Art Show featuring art created by local healthcare workers and volunteers. Art will be on display at The Art Center in September 2022, launching at The Art Center’s First Friday event on September 2. All Mesa County healthcare workers and volunteers are invited, and we would love to have people from your organization participate. We are looking for images and other artwork celebrating the compassion, commitment, caring hearts and inclusive spirits that healthcare providers show every day in our community. Multiple art forms are encouraged. So think creatively – from quilts to paintings, photography to sculpture or collage. Pieces must be original to the artist and have been created within the past two years. Prizes will be awarded to first, second, and third places in each category. The artist's name and healthcare organization will be displayed with each submission. The artist may also include a purchase price if they are interested in selling. The Art Center will keep a 30% commission on all sales. EXHIBITIONS | 19
2022 Art Center
Art Excursions Tour Series
Note: Prices and dates are approximate and might change depending on demand, availability, and unforeseen opportunities. Upcoming Tours: August 24--26: San Juan Mountains Plein Air Workshop with Loren Eakins Experience the San Juan Mountains during the glory of its fall colors through a Plein Air workshop with Art Center favorite Loren Eakins. This three-day workshop will use Ridgway as its base of operation as it ventures out into the wonders of the San Juans. Members Only: $1,050 / $200 Single-Supplement. Includes transportation, lodging, and instruction. Does not include meals.
September 7: Escalante Canyon Tour with Zebulon Miracle Enjoy the breathtaking scenery and epic heritage of Escalante Canyon with a stop at Fort Uncompahgre. Members Only: $100. Includes transportation, sack lunch, and a wonderful memory.
September 9--13: National Park Grand Circle: North Rim Grand Canyon, Zion, and Bryce Canyon Join The Art Center in this wondrous journey through the grandeur and splendor to the North Rim of the Grand 20 | EVENTS
Canyon, Zion, and Bryce Canyon national parks. Members Only: $1,350 / $300 Single-Supplement. Includes transportation, lodging, admission, tours, tips, and more. Does not include meals.
October 21: Moab Rock Art Trip with Zebulon Miracle Discover with local historian Zebulon Miracle the rock art treasures that are found in the red rock country around Moab, Utah. Members Only: $110. Includes transportation, admission, tips, and more. Does not include meals.
December 7--9: The Grand Canyon by Train in the Holidays Enjoy this Holiday excursion to the Grand Canyon with its natural wonders wrapped in a winter splendor. We will travel to the Grand Canyon in first class luxury on the Grand Canyon Railroad and stay at the legendary El Tovar Hotel. Members Only: $1,550 / $200 SingleSupplement. Includes transportation, train tickets, lodging, admission, tips, and more. Does not include meals.
Visit gjartcenter.org to reserve your spot today!
UPCOMING CONCERTS at Two Rivers Winery, 7pm WILD FLIGHT Tuesday, July 19 DONNY MORALES & GLENN PATTERSON Tuesday, August 16 STRAY GRASS Wednesday, September 7 For tickets and additional concert information, visit artcenterguild.org Sponsored by
ANNUAL POTTERY SALE September 2-30; ceramics studio and Art Center courtyard The Art Center’s annual pottery sale is a fundraiser for the Ceramics Department. Funds from the sale are directed toward the acquisition and maintenance of studio equipment and tools, and for class and workshop scholarships. Not only is the sale a way to support the Ceramics Department, but it’s also an opportunity to find fantastic deals on ceramics hand-made by Art Center instructors and students. EVENTS | 21
School’s Out Day Camp Ages 5-13 8:30am-4:30pm Sep 5, 6, 26; Oct 13, 14 Remainder of the school year dates offered: Nov 3, 4, 21-25; Dec 22, 23, 26-30; Jan 2-6, 16, 17; Feb 20; March 16, 17, 20-24; April 14) Tuition per day per child: $30 member / $35 non-member All materials provided Experience an entire day of in-depth art exploration! Projects range from drawing, painting, and sculpture to process art, and more, through hands-on learning. Each day has open-ended creative exploration with art instruction. Children enjoy learning, exploring, observing, and creating in an inclusive and inspiring environment. Students are asked to bring a lunch, snack, and water bottle. All materials provided.
Sep 5: Play with color – edible color wheel, acrylic paint pouring, Jackson Pollock
Sep 6: Discover the art side of LEGOS, how to draw with depth, watercolor
Sep 26: Different STEAM-related projects Oct 13: Explore different art mediums: watercolor, pastels, found sculpture, collage
Oct 14: Get ready for the Halloween season; seasonal fall crafts.
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After School Program: ART FOR KIDS Ages 5-12 Rachel Egelston and guest artist Fridays, 4:30-6pm Tuition per session: $55 member / $70 non-member Welcome to the wonderful world of art! After School series is geared toward any child who loves to draw, paint, and use a variety of material. Join in the fun! All materials provided.
Session 1: Sept 2, 16, 23, 30: Drawing techniques, batik bandana, clay treasure box
Session 2: Oct 7, 14, 21, 28: Art from around the world, Gyotaku (fish printing), African mud painting, Swedish color drawing, pottery from Mexico
Home School Art Program Ages 5-13 Rachel Egelston Thursdays, 1-2:30 pm, Sep 1- Oct 27, skipping Sep 8 $105 member / $155 non-member All materials provided; need-based scholarships available This class is a perfect way to pique your child’s creative interest. Art allows children to express their ideas and concepts visually and leads to a balance in their development. Children are encouraged to engage in both traditional and non-traditional art projects in a variety of media and techniques while exploring their diverse roots and experiences through art. Areas covered are clay, painting, printmaking, drawing, and sculpture. Some of the featured projects this session are clay selfies, arpilleras paperclip felting, and gild pinch pots. Projects will vary from other sessions to accommodate returning students. All materials provided. All youth classes address the Colorado Model Content Standard for visual arts. Content standards used in class will be provided upon request. Students and parents are assured of a unique classroom and project experience whether it be in fall, holiday, winter, spring, or summer sessions. Classes are taught by art teachers and teaching artists.
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COLLECTION CORNER Highlighting works from The Art Center's Permanent Collection
Raku tea bowl from Raku Summit by Matthew Jones, TAC Curator This beautiful tea bowl was produced during the Raku Summit in 2005, organized by Jim Romberg and Lynette Jennings and hosted by the Eagleheart Center for Art and Inquiry. The symposium featured internationally acclaimed ceramic artists such as: Tim Andrews, Rick Hirsch, Toshio Ohi, Jean Biagini, Jim Romberg, David Jones, and the late Paul Soldner. A commemorative book, Raku: Origins, Impact and Contemporary Expression by Lynette Jennings states that this was an “international gathering of professional artists committed to Raku ceramics. The objective of this symposium was to provide a collaborative environment for experimentation and philosophical exploration.” The event lasted twelve days and represented artists from the UK, France, Japan, Switzerland and the United States. The Raku we see in the West, as seen in this example, has developed distinctly from what could be described as Raku Family ware. It was Paul Soldner who, after his visit to Japan, cultivated the method of post-fire reduction; he called this innovation Western 24 | COLLECTION CORNER
Raku. He stated this about the naming of Raku: “It was a mistake. We didn’t know… I still don’t know what Raku means. Except, we were told by Mr. Raku that we can’t call it that.” In his 1906 work, The Book of Tea, Kakuzo Okakura states, “The Philosophy of Tea is not mere aestheticism in the ordinary acceptance of the term, for it expresses conjointly with ethics and religion our whole point of view about man and nature.” For the Japanese, the tea bowl, or chawan, is an aesthetic object to be appreciated and admired for its function and beauty. Raku ware is the pinnacle of wabi-sabi (the beauty of imperfection). The Raku family became well known in Japan during the 15th century for a glaze ground from stones sourced from their family’s stream. The glassy surface and rich black color are said to pair best with freshly powdered green matcha. The bowls were produced by hand without the use of a wheel, giving them an organic, humble appearance. The foot of the pots were trimmed using a sharp tool creating a lifted pedestal on which the bowls would rests.
This tea bowl by an unknown artist was produced at the 2005 Raku Summit. It features a traditional Japanese winter tea bowl form with a carved foot and fluid organic rim. The simple white crackle glaze and exposed clay body trap carbon, producing a matured look and duality in value.
“I feel there is much that western culture has to learn from the aesthetics of the Japanese, and it is through these kinds of cultural cooperations that new innovations and artforms are discovered.” - Matthew Jones
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From Ground to Fire
Workshop with Terry Shepherd in Tuscarora, Nevada Art Center Director of Ceramics and clay artist, Terry Shepherd, has been invited to conduct an 8-day workshop in native clay at the Tuscarora Retreat & Summer Pottery School in Tuscarora, Nevada. Titled "From Ground to Fire," the workshop will be July 6-13, 2022. Focuses of the workshop are prospecting native clay, processing and mixing, traditional forming methods and primitive pit firing forms in the spirit of the ancient Native American potters of yesteryear! Contact Elaine Parks at tuscarorapottery.com with inquiries.
Sculpting Imaginary Characters
The upcoming Sculpting Imaginary Characters workshop in August 2022 has been cancelled until further notice. We hope to have her back in 2023!
Fall Registration Opens Tuesday, July 12, at 9am Open Studios for Mixed Media Gayle Gerson Beginner/Intermediate Wednesdays 9am-12pm, August 10 – October 5 $102 member / $162 non-member
Join Gayle Gerson in the Red Door Studio for three hours of moodling and puttering in mixed media projects. This class is designed for the experienced student and artist who would like to spend some time in an environment of camaraderie and inspiration. Please bring your own projects and supplies for mixed media and collage. Ideas and creativity will be shared with generosity and abandon by all. Gayle will provide coaching, some demos, and lively conversation on the latest trends in the world of mixed media art. Participants should be prepared to work, laugh, and provide feedback to their fellow artists. 26 | WORKSHOPS & CLASSES
Gayle Gerson, Harbinger, detail CLASSES | 27
Dan Logé, Untitled 28 | CLASSES
Oil Painting
Dan Logé Mondays 9am-12pm, August 8 – October 10, skipping September 5 Mondays 1-4pm, August 8 – October 10, skipping September 5 $102 member / $162 non-member This class is open to everyone interested in learning how to create a beautiful oil painting from beginning to completion. This will be a fun, casual class full of information, and Dan will be there to answer any questions that you might have about making art. Dan teaches a method that is simple and easy to understand which will bring you positive results. All skill levels are welcome!
Sketching Animals
Dan Logé Tuesdays 9am-12pm, August 9 – October 4 $102 member / $162 non-member Is it a drawing or is it a painting? Actually, it’s both! This class is designed to improve your drawing skills by sketching animals with oil paint. The sketches are not finished paintings, but they show the student the importance of how most paintings begin, with a gesture or quick study of the subject. The sketches will be done monochromatically (limited palette) and with a time limit of 10, 20, and 30 minutes in duration. The instructor will supply photo references of various animals and birds that students can choose from.
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30 | CERAMICS
Fundamentals in Wheelthrowing Beginner/Intermediate $242 member / $282 non-member Ashtonn Means Mondays 6:30-9:30pm, August 8 – October 10, skipping September 5 Supplies required: basic pottery toolkit, towel This course is designed for both beginning and intermediate students. The projects and demonstrations will be geared toward the skill level and interest of each student. Throughout this course students will learn techniques for wheel-throwing and glaze application, while forming a strong understanding of materials and firing practices associated with the medium. We will discuss in detail, during demonstrations and projects, the design principles for functional pottery, the fundamentals of form and form alteration, as well as aesthetic surface design techniques. Beginners will be encouraged to focus on bowls, cups, and mugs as a method for gaining comfortability with the materials. Intermediate students can continue to explore these basic forms or stretch their abilities with more complex forms and techniques. Open studio time is available and strongly encouraged to practice skills learned during class time. Instructor email: potterybyashtonn@gmail.com
Robbie Breaux and guest instructor Tuesdays 1-4pm, August 9 – October 4 Thursdays 6:30-9:30pm, August 9 – October 4 Supplies required: basic pottery toolkit, towel This course is for both beginner and intermediate students. Beginners focus on simple forms (mugs with handles, and bowls), glazes, and glazing techniques. Intermediate students receive instruction on techniques they want to hone, such as lidded vessels, plates, or stacked forms. Throughout the session, students are introduced to different surface designs to enhance one’s work. Instruction will be tailored towards the students' interests! Open studio time is available and strongly encouraged to practice skills learned during class time. Instructor email: chuckrobbiebreaux@gmail.com
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Fundamentals in Wheelthrowing Beginner/Intermediate $242 member / $282 non-member Gary Andrews Tuesdays 6:30-9:30pm, August 9 – October 4 Supplies required: basic pottery toolkit, towel Escape into the world of clay. Students learn the basics of handbuilding, then dive into the skills needed to throw fundamental forms which have been used through the ages. At times Gary will provide pre-thrown pots for students to practice glazing. Come relax and tap into your right brain. Open studio time is available and strongly encouraged to practice skills learned during class time. Instructor email: garyartc@gmail.com
Terry Shepherd Thursdays 1-4pm, August 11 – October 6 Supplies required: basic pottery toolkit, towel, notebook This course is for entry level beginners and intermediate students with some previous experience in throwing and hand-building. Students will focus on the fundamentals of technique in throwing forms and explore hand-building skills and surface design including decorative slip techniques and a wide variety of surface design approaches. Instruction in glaze application and material properties of glaze elements and firing process will be studied. Basic vessel forms for mugs, bowls, pitchers, oil bottles, and other forms will be studied in detail. Instruction is tuned to the individual to help students develop confidence in exploring the boundless and curious potential of clay and ceramic process in their pursuit of creative expression! Students will make work for a Raku firing scheduled for the 8th week of class. Students will engage in constructive critique and challenge themselves in order to improve their skill level. Open studio time is available and strongly encouraged to practice skills learned during class time. Instructor email: tshepherd@gjartcenter.org
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Intermediate Wheelthrowing Terry Shepherd Wednesdays 9:30am-12:30pm, August 10 – October 5 $242 member / $282 non-member Supplies required: basic pottery toolkit, towel, notebook Take this course if you are confident when it comes to wedging and centering, can throw a 6-8" cylinder using 2-3lbs. of clay, and have experience with basic hand tools and slab rollers. Techniques such as altered throwing are introduced. Come with an open mind, ready to engage in constructive critique and explore and develop a more in-depth approach to ceramics. Open studio time is available and strongly encouraged to practice skills learned during class time. Instructor email: tshepherd@gjartcenter.org
Advanced Wheelthrowing Terry Shepherd Wednesdays 6:30-9:30pm, August 10 – October 5 $242 member / $282 non-member Supplies required: basic pottery toolkit, towel, notebook Take this course if you meet the requirements for intermediate ceramics, have confidence when it comes to throwing a 10-14" cylinder using 5-10lbs. of clay, and have a desire and willingness to acquire a deeper understanding of the material properties of different clays (such as cone 10 stoneware and porcelain) and glazes, as well as alternative firing processes. Students engage in constructive critique and challenge themselves in order to improve their skill level. Open studio time is available and strongly encouraged to practice skills learned during class time. Instructor email: tshepherd@gjartcenter.org
Robbie Breaux
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Robbie Breaux
All Levels Hand-building
Robbie Breaux and guest instructor Wednesdays 1-4pm, August 10 – October 5 $242 member / $282 non-member Not all beautiful ceramic work is thrown on a wheel! Students will join together slabs of clay, forming exquisite pieces using a variety of techniques and surface patterns. This course will focus primarily on decorative and ornamental work. In addition to slab-building, there will also be coiling and extrusion projects throughout the class.
Sculpting in Clay
Ron Cloyd Fridays 9:30am-12:30pm, August 12 – October 7 $242 member / $282 non-member Whether you are a novice or seasoned clay artist, this course is one that will help you transform your visions into finished fired forms. With a focus toward whimsy and humor, Ron’s sculpture class will consist of demos and discussions about project inspiration (“where did you come up with that idea?”), use of tools, clay manipulation, firing, and finishing. You will be able to work through instructor-guided projects, or immediately begin sculpting from your own ideas. Some tools are available, but students are encouraged to bring their own as well. Instructor email: roncloyd@gmail.com Included in every ceramics tuition is one, 25-lb. bag of clay and 3000 cu. in. of glaze firing (firing fee after 3000 cu. in. is 2 cents/cu. in.) 34 | CERAMICS
The Nitty Gritty Fall registration opens Tuesday, July 12
Students must register three days before the start of a class to secure a spot.
Registration: Registration can be completed online at gjartcenter. org, over the phone, or in person at The Art Center. For phone registration, call 970-243-7337, x. 2. To register in person, stop by during gallery hours, TuesdaySaturday 9am-4pm. Payment:
Payment can be made by American Express, Visa, Mastercard, Discover, check, or cash. Class space will not be reserved without full payment. Please be aware that classes require a minimum number of students and are subject to cancellation. The best way to ensure that the class you are interested in does not get canceled is to register early, and don’t forget to urge a friend to sign up!
Cancellation Policy: To cancel
a class or workshop registration, notify The Art Center at least 14 days before the start of the class or workshop. If given the required 14-day notice, The Art Center will issue class credit in full or will refund your payment minus the registration fee ($15 for adults and $5 for children). No refunds or class credit will be issued for cancellations made
within 14 days of the start of the class or workshop. If you register for a class or workshop within the 14-day period, you will receive no refund or class credit for cancellation. Sorry, no refunds or class credits for no-shows. This registration policy helps instructors plan and prepare for upcoming classes, ensuring you receive ample notice if a class has insufficient registration.
Art Supplies: Supply lists
for each class are available on our website. Unless otherwise specified, the student is responsible for purchasing art supplies. Some supplies are available at The Art Center Gift Gallery. Tuition for ceramics classes includes one, 25-lb. bag of clay and 3000 cu. in. of glaze firing (firing fee after 3000 cu. in. is 2 cents/cu. in.) Ceramics students will need a pottery tool kit, not covered by tuition and available from The Art Center Gift Gallery for $27.49 plus tax. Need-based scholarships are available. Visit our website’s scholarships page for more information!
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1803 N 7th Street Grand Junction, CO 81501
Volume 7, Issue 4 Fall 2022 NON PROFIT ORG US POSTAGE PA I D GRAND JCT, CO PERMIT 162