I had always maintained the stance that I wanted to spend my time making pots rather than teaching others how to make pots, and for the first several years of my being a studio potter I was happy to do just that.
Then in the fall of 2003 I was invited to teach a two day wheel throwing workshop for both the Tennessee and Alabama Art Education Associations at the Arrowmont School of Crafts in Gatlinburg, TN. I was convinced that someone famous had cancelled and they called me in a pinch, but nevertheless, I accepted and had an absolutely wonderful weekend teaching teachers how to make pots.
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Something changed in me that weekend and on our way home my wife and I talked a lot about how to bring this stirring interest in teaching to fruition. Shortly thereafter we purchased six potter's wheels, built a 400 sq ft addition to the studio, and started teaching classes.
These classes generally meet one night each week and continue for a six week period. Each session is geared towards developing a greater understanding of technique and process.
Although everyone ends up learning a lot about making pots, these classes are in no way academic. These classes are about letting loose, turning up the music, getting dirty, and having a good time making pots.
Contact Eric at eric@botbylpottery.com for more information. |
