Press release from Haywood Community College:
Haywood Community College announces HCC Clay in Retrospect– an exhibition featuring the work of 20 artists from the college’s 46 years of clay programming. These artists represent the rich history of craftspeople who have studied professional crafts clay at HCC.
Gary Clontz founded the college’s clay program in 1974 and together with his colleagues, expanded the program to include areas of study in Fiber, Jewelry and Wood. Now in its 44th year, Haywood Community College’s Professional Crafts Program is the only one of its kind in the country.
“The individuality in the work of these artists is a testament to the [Professional Crafts Clay] program. No two artists’ work is alike,” says Clontz of the artwork in HCC Clay in Retrospect.
Emily Reason, current HCC Clay instructor adds, “These artists are demonstrating the lasting impact education can have and creative diversity that can be expressed through the ceramic medium. The devotion and passion these artists have for their craft are what we strive to instill in our students.”
HCC Clay in Retrospect runs now through April 22, 2020, and is located on the second floor of the Creative Arts Building on the HCC campus. The public is invited to a closing reception Wednesday, April 22, 4-6 p.m. with a Gallery Talk beginning at 4:30 p.m.
The Professional Crafts program is a two-year commitment, focusing on all aspects of becoming an independent craft professional. In addition to sharpening their technical and artistic skill in their chosen medium, students also create a marketable line of production work, plan a studio, and become familiar with the craft market. Mandatory coursework includes photography of finished pieces for gaining entrance into craft shows, creating a business plan, and designing and building a studio tailored to fit production needs.
For more information about HCC’s clay program, call 828-627-4671 or email eareason@haywood.edu.
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