MN NICE Graduates

November 19 – December 24

Emily Galusha Gallery

Virtual Tour available November 23

Opening Reception: Sunday, November 19, 12 – 4 pm

MN NICE Graduates features the work of six emerging ceramic artists from the ninth graduating class of the Minnesota New Institute for Ceramic Education (MN NICE) program. Participating artists include: Jen Azzariti, Ray Caron, Lydia Gutowsky, Ivy Mattson, Janelle Pochardt, and Randy Schutt.

The 2022 - 23 MN NICE artists joined this program because a horizon line was taking shape for them, and they felt compelled to pursue a sharpened focus. They made an intense commitment to bring their work under a collective critical eye in the hopes of stepping toward a new future on terms they have defined through this program, with a new professional peer network, and a deeper understanding of the potential held by a daily life engaged in contemporary ceramics.

MN NICE is an advanced certificate program that provides rigorous, personalized instruction for artists who are serious about taking the next step in their ceramic education. The program is designed to respond to the changing needs of emerging makers and to give non-traditional students high-level training in ceramic materials, history and theory, and professional practice. Through instruction and individual mentorship, artists build the skills, knowledge, and insight necessary to create a personal and cohesive body of work.

MN NICE extends beyond the physical classroom to take advantage of the rich ceramic resources throughout the Twin Cities, including: artist lectures, gallery tours, and virtual studio visits with established ceramic artists. Under the leadership, guidance, and thoughtful instruction of program head Ursula Hargens, MN NICE strives to prepare artists both artistically and professionally, whether they are seeking gallery representation, applying for graduate school, or selling work to the public.