I’m running around today, recording some audio, interviewing a few of the artists, a dinner engagement this evening and then preparing for a busy weekend ahead.
Retro phone in the house where I am staying for the DC internship.
More about this space at a later date.
Instead of my usual post, I want to ask my oh-so-supportive readers two questions:
1. Has my apprenticeship experience (so far) inspired you to do something similar; look at art-making differently; deepened your appreciation for the value of art?
2. What do you want to see/read/hear about from my time here in DC?
Big or small, complex or simple, good or bad – all feedback is greatly appreciated. Please leave a comment – it will help me as I move forward with the project. Thanks and have a great weekend!








I’ve really enjoyed hearing your updates on your apprenticeship. I bet you’re learning some really great techniques and having a wonderful time! I know I’ve seen somethings that I would like to try. I am particularly intrigued by the test tiles you were working with the blow torch a few weeks ago. Is there sodium silicate in the slip?
I had a somewhat similar experience to your apprenticeship this January. I had the opportunity to spend three weeks at Anderson Ranch doing a mini residency in clay. It was such an inspiring experience and a real kick in the pants to get my art career going. I am currently working to get my artwork and my family life to the point where I can apply for a full ten week residency. Your apprenticeship certainly encourages me to go for it!
Enjoy your learning experience and keep sharing with us!
Your regular letters are in my priority mailbox list. This means I always read them. I delete a lot of email without reading it, but not yours!
Your adventures are very instructive peeks into the inner workings and HARD WORK aspects of art making. It’s good to see others with their hands in the media. Kneeling down on a concrete floor wedging heavy chunks of clay– now that hurts my back (I’m 70+), and my knees remember times like that. You are a vicarious eye and ear and knee and back for all of us. Thanks. Keep on keeping on!
I’d love seeing their studio spaces and tools along with their work. I’m so enjoying the whole series.
I now find your blog essential reading first thing in the morning.Your apprentice program has demystified the artistic process that is behind the work you show. It is important because it is a reminder that as with everything in life- with hard work and attention to detail- the amazing can happen. The creative process is a job and certain processes and steps must happen to produce a result. I think it is the demystifying of the artistic process that enables us to appreciate the finished piece more.
I second the request for studio pictures!
Also, I love reading about your residency experiences. Diving in head first is such a great way to learn about everything and I wish that I had the ability to do it right now!
I’m really enjoying the series and so appreciate you sharing it with all of us. I would relish a similar opportunity, yes!
I’d love to hear a bit more on the artist’s thoughts- and of course yours too- on finding balance. Art work that has to be made- for inventory, exhibits etc- and still finding time for new art made for personal reasons or experimentation or to develop a whole new body of work. How does one find this balance- especially these days with pressure of blogging, FB, staying current with technology.etc. I’m drowning.
I love your blog-as an artist in the area, and as an art teacher who can point students to this inside view of an artist’s life in the real world. It would be great to read more from the artists viewpoint as well.
Thank you for an inspiring blog-and your great choices!
I just wanted to thank you for taking us along on your adventures. I love all the new ideas of the artists and they do inspire me to branch out and try things I have never even thought about. Thanks
I, too, would like to see more of the studio space. How has it evolved? How is it different from an individual home studio?
I’d also like to hear from the artists. What are their thoughts on the apprenticeship process? How do they see such an idea expanding (do they)?
Mounting a show?
Dealing with a gallery or shop owner?
You know I get stuck in the house, so your experiences that you are having and sharing mean a lot to me. After all, you are so happy, I can almost hear your giggle between the lines. That’s enough to make me smile
Your blog initially captured me with your features of a variety of art and fine crafts. I still love seeing the pieces that catch your eye, and as an aspiring sculptor I like to visit those websites and learn what I can about site design and photography of artwork. I’m also enjoying your current residency, so just keep up the great work!
Your posts are so interesting and the photos are fabulous…I’m really enjoying them and look forward to your more detailed reporting on your adventures in Washington. I guess my question is how do you find artists that want an apprentice?