John Britt on wed 22 aug 12
Please join me in the Penland Boycott:
http://ncclayclub.blogspot.com/2012/08/penland-boycott.html
I don't want to post the long description here but if you are interested,=
=3D
=3D20
click the link and then write an email.
Thanks ,
John Britt Pottery
Clay art on thu 23 aug 12
It is so sad to read about this. For years I've been admiring Penland for
their artists and their successes. I tried to get a workshop booked with
them and was told I must get an "insider referral"
With what I just read, I am not sure if I would like to do that anymore. Of
cause there are always 2 sides to a story and I have only read one side. I
do believe if they are guilty of illegal actions, the law should get hold o=
f
them, not only a boycott. There are implications of interest that should be
added to the back pay!
Unfortunately I have seen it too often in my life that artists get misused.
I wish we could start some kind of movement that would protect artists from
situations like this.
Lately I refuse to go to outdoor craft shows, because I cannot stand it to
see how artists are delivered to the mercy of craft show promoters that get
their money from artists, but artists are delivered to bad venues and have
to compete with ice-cream cones and people walking their dogs.
There are more ways that artists get misused, but I think I will get off my
soapbox right here.
Best wishes.
Antoinette Badenhorst.
www.porcelainbyAntoinette.com
-----Original Message-----
From: Clayart [mailto:Clayart@LSV.CERAMICS.ORG] On Behalf Of John Britt
Sent: Wednesday, August 22, 2012 8:28 AM
To: Clayart@LSV.CERAMICS.ORG
Subject: Penland Boycott
Please join me in the Penland Boycott:
http://ncclayclub.blogspot.com/2012/08/penland-boycott.html
I don't want to post the long description here but if you are interested,
click the link and then write an email.
Thanks ,
John Britt Pottery
John Britt on thu 23 aug 12
Thanks Antoinette,
They should be lucky to have you!
If you could send a letter to Rob and Jean it would help. They need to
know. And we also have a petition:
http://www.change.org/petitions/penland-school-board-chairman-repay-the-art=
ists
On Thu, Aug 23, 2012 at 12:40 PM, Clay art wrote=
:
> It is so sad to read about this. For years I've been admiring Penland for
> their artists and their successes. I tried to get a workshop booked with
> them and was told I must get an "insider referral"
>
> With what I just read, I am not sure if I would like to do that anymore. =
Of
> cause there are always 2 sides to a story and I have only read one side. =
I
> do believe if they are guilty of illegal actions, the law should get hold
> of
> them, not only a boycott. There are implications of interest that should =
be
> added to the back pay!
>
> Unfortunately I have seen it too often in my life that artists get misuse=
d.
> I wish we could start some kind of movement that would protect artists fr=
om
> situations like this.
>
> Lately I refuse to go to outdoor craft shows, because I cannot stand it t=
o
> see how artists are delivered to the mercy of craft show promoters that g=
et
> their money from artists, but artists are delivered to bad venues and hav=
e
> to compete with ice-cream cones and people walking their dogs.
>
> There are more ways that artists get misused, but I think I will get off =
my
> soapbox right here.
>
> Best wishes.
> Antoinette Badenhorst.
> www.porcelainbyAntoinette.com
>
>
>
>
>
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Clayart [mailto:Clayart@LSV.CERAMICS.ORG] On Behalf Of John Britt
> Sent: Wednesday, August 22, 2012 8:28 AM
> To: Clayart@LSV.CERAMICS.ORG
> Subject: Penland Boycott
>
> Please join me in the Penland Boycott:
>
> http://ncclayclub.blogspot.com/2012/08/penland-boycott.html
>
> I don't want to post the long description here but if you are interested,
> click the link and then write an email.
>
> Thanks ,
>
> John Britt Pottery
>
>
--
Regards,
John
John Britt Pottery
Rimas VisGirda on fri 24 aug 12
Antoinette Badenhorst says:
With what I just read, I am not sure if I would like to do that anymore. Of
cause there are always 2 sides to a story and I have only read one side...
My wife came upon: "there's 3 sides to every story, your side, my side and =
the truth"
-Rimas
John Britt on fri 24 aug 12
Tony,
To me this represents all the arts organizations who routinely abuse
workers. Not volunteers... that I get. But we do have labor laws in the US
that apply to all employers and do not exempt arts organizations.
I can also understand small arts groups that are struggling and can barely
pay the director let alone a bunch of workers and overtime. But in the case
of Penland, which once was a small struggling arts organization but now it
has assets of $27,000, 000.
Here is their 990:
http://dynamodata.fdncenter.org/990s/990search/esearch.php
You can see that those assets went from $9,000,000 in 2003 to $27,000,000
in 2011. So during the time of their illegal overtime practices they were
amassing a consider amount of money yet were somehow unable to pay their
artists/workers what the law required. And now they make around $500,000 at
their yearly auction with work that is donated by artists and can't find a
penny to pay the artists who worked for them? Perplexing to me.
I just don't put them in the same boat as a small struggling arts group.
They should be leading the fight for ethical treatment of working artists
not abusing them!
Anyway, it us just my position that if this wealthy institution, with it
mission to promote artists and craft, can't do right by artists then why
should we stand by silently and accept it? Why should be continue to donate
art for the auction?
I understand it from BP Oil but Penland? They must do better.
So if anyone wants to help please join the petition for a better working
environment for artists. If they step up perhaps others will follow!
http://www.change.org/petitions/penland-school-board-chairman-repay-the-art=
=3D
ists
On Fri, Aug 24, 2012 at 8:51 AM, tony clennell wro=
=3D
te:
> Alright Johnnie I'm right behind you holding your coat while you roll
> up your sleeves. You're absolutely correct in your actions. In the
> words of one of my favourite radio hosts Captain Jack Farr- "Fight,
> big fighter, fight!" Float like a butterfly and sting like a bee.
> Tony
>
> On Thu, Aug 23, 2012 at 4:46 PM, John Britt
> wrote:
> > Tony,
> >
> > I understand your sentiment. But since I am a few years younger ;-) =
=3D
I
> > would say that a some point in life you have to stand up for what is
> right.
> > If you let injustice exist where you see it, then you are responsible f=
=3D
or
> > it. (e.g.Penn State)
> >
> > Or as Martin Luther King said: " If You Don=3D92t Stand Up For Justice=
, =3D
You
> Die
> > Even If You Live To Be 90"
> >
> > So this is my chance to try to right a wrong, even if it is only at one
> > institution! You wouldn't believe now many letter I have gotten saying
> that
> > this happened to them at such and such art school.
> >
> > So if no one stands up we are all sitting on our asses....or as Haile
> > Selassie said:
> >
> > =3D93Throughout history, it has been the inaction of those who could ha=
ve
> acted;
> > the indifference of those who should have known better; the silence of
> the
> > voice of justice when it mattered most; that has made it possible for
> evil
> > to triumph.=3D94
> >
> > So I am standing up the the little guy, the artist who is too afraid to
> > speak out.
> >
> > Stand with me Tony, you aren't dead yet!
> >
> >
> http://www.change.org/petitions/penland-school-board-chairman-repay-the-a=
=3D
rtists
> > Mel Thompson
> >
> > On Thu, Aug 23, 2012 at 4:33 PM, tony clennell =3D
>
> > wrote:
> >>
> >> I applaud John Britt's efforts to right previous wrongs to the hourly
> >> workers at Penland but I can't help but think of advice given by actor
> >> Richard Gere to Dan Rather when he was fired from the network for
> >> comments about W-ya's service record. Richard whispered in Dan's ear "
> >> So ya got screwed. It happens all the time in my business . Get over
> >> it!" I have taken Rick's advice to heart over the past few years when
> >> I have worked my arse off and not been rewarded. I used to say of
> >> myself "Why would they buy the cow when they get the milk for free?"
> >> but now I follow Rick's advice- So ya got screwed, get over it! I
> >> focus on what I can do for tomorrow and kinda right off yesterday. At
> >> age 61 I only have so much energy to spend so I am focusing on today
> >> and tomorrow.
> >> Hey John are you still on Clayart? You ought to be. I applaud your
> >> chip but wonder if this in the end is good for John. Been there, done
> >> that and bought the t-shirt. I don't wear it anymore. Grew out of it
> >> in more ways than one. Maybe it's called getting old.
> >> All the best,
> >> Tony
> >>
> >>
> >>
> >> --
> >>
> >>
> >> http://smokieclennell.blogspot.com
> >
> >
> >
> >
> > --
> > Regards,
> >
> > John
> >
> > John Britt Pottery
> >
>
>
>
> --
>
>
> http://smokieclennell.blogspot.com
>
--=3D20
Regards,
John
John Britt Pottery
James Freeman on fri 24 aug 12
On Fri, Aug 24, 2012 at 9:18 AM, John Britt wro=
te:
Anyway, it us just my position that if this wealthy institution, with it
mission to promote artists and craft, can't do right by artists then why
should we stand by silently and accept it? Why should be continue to donate
art for the auction?
I understand it from BP Oil but Penland?
John...
I'm confused. What did BP do that is not in support of artists? As I
understand it, BP is desirous of continuing its sponsorship and support of
the Tate, and it is some fringe groups who are demanding the sponsorship be
refused to "keep art pure", or some such drivel. BP annually donates tens
of millions of dollars/pounds to the arts. In addition to funding smaller
projects and organizations, they are major donors to not only the Tate, but
also the National Portrait Gallery, the Royal Opera House, and the British
Museum. Indeed, the British Minister of Culture stated that "BP has led
the way in business support of the arts."
All artists who care about the arts should support BP! I buy no other
brand of gasoline. Except when I am in Utah and can buy Sinclair. I love
that dinosaur!
...James
James Freeman
"Talk sense to a fool, and he calls you foolish."
-Euripides
http://www.jamesfreemanstudio.com
http://www.flickr.com/photos/jamesfreemanstudio/
http://www.jamesfreemanstudio.com/resources
tony clennell on fri 24 aug 12
Alright Johnnie. I have signed up. I am an arts activist and that is
why I posted my workshop fees a month or so ago. I was not bragging! I
was like you saying professionals need to be paid professional wages.
I am a professional studio potter not a starving artist and never
intend to be. I had a Penland scratch your head moment some years ago
when the late Malcolm Davis asked me to be his assistant for a winter
residency (6 weeks I believe). I was offered $75 a week. I didn't even
get offered a travel allowance. Yeah, it would have looked good on my
CV but not so good on the kitchen table. It would have been great to
spend that time with Malcolm but Sheila and our livelihood comes
first.
Fight, big fighter, fight!
tony
On Fri, Aug 24, 2012 at 9:18 AM, John Britt wr=
=3D
ote:
> Tony,
>
> To me this represents all the arts organizations who routinely abuse
> workers. Not volunteers... that I get. But we do have labor laws in the =
=3D
US
> that apply to all employers and do not exempt arts organizations.
>
> I can also understand small arts groups that are struggling and can barel=
=3D
y
> pay the director let alone a bunch of workers and overtime. But in the ca=
=3D
se
> of Penland, which once was a small struggling arts organization but now i=
=3D
t
> has assets of $27,000, 000.
>
> Here is their 990:
>
> http://dynamodata.fdncenter.org/990s/990search/esearch.php
>
> You can see that those assets went from $9,000,000 in 2003 to $27,000,000=
=3D
in
> 2011. So during the time of their illegal overtime practices they were
> amassing a consider amount of money yet were somehow unable to pay their
> artists/workers what the law required. And now they make around $500,000 =
=3D
at
> their yearly auction with work that is donated by artists and can't find =
=3D
a
> penny to pay the artists who worked for them? Perplexing to me.
>
> I just don't put them in the same boat as a small struggling arts group.
> They should be leading the fight for ethical treatment of working artists
> not abusing them!
>
> Anyway, it us just my position that if this wealthy institution, with it
> mission to promote artists and craft, can't do right by artists then why
> should we stand by silently and accept it? Why should be continue to dona=
=3D
te
> art for the auction?
>
> I understand it from BP Oil but Penland? They must do better.
>
> So if anyone wants to help please join the petition for a better working
> environment for artists. If they step up perhaps others will follow!
>
> http://www.change.org/petitions/penland-school-board-chairman-repay-the-a=
=3D
rtists
>
>
> On Fri, Aug 24, 2012 at 8:51 AM, tony clennell
> wrote:
>>
>> Alright Johnnie I'm right behind you holding your coat while you roll
>> up your sleeves. You're absolutely correct in your actions. In the
>> words of one of my favourite radio hosts Captain Jack Farr- "Fight,
>> big fighter, fight!" Float like a butterfly and sting like a bee.
>> Tony
>>
>> On Thu, Aug 23, 2012 at 4:46 PM, John Britt
>> wrote:
>> > Tony,
>> >
>> > I understand your sentiment. But since I am a few years younger ;-)
>> > I
>> > would say that a some point in life you have to stand up for what is
>> > right.
>> > If you let injustice exist where you see it, then you are responsible
>> > for
>> > it. (e.g.Penn State)
>> >
>> > Or as Martin Luther King said: " If You Don=3D92t Stand Up For Justic=
e,=3D
You
>> > Die
>> > Even If You Live To Be 90"
>> >
>> > So this is my chance to try to right a wrong, even if it is only at on=
=3D
e
>> > institution! You wouldn't believe now many letter I have gotten sayin=
=3D
g
>> > that
>> > this happened to them at such and such art school.
>> >
>> > So if no one stands up we are all sitting on our asses....or as Haile
>> > Selassie said:
>> >
>> > =3D93Throughout history, it has been the inaction of those who could h=
av=3D
e
>> > acted;
>> > the indifference of those who should have known better; the silence of
>> > the
>> > voice of justice when it mattered most; that has made it possible for
>> > evil
>> > to triumph.=3D94
>> >
>> > So I am standing up the the little guy, the artist who is too afraid t=
=3D
o
>> > speak out.
>> >
>> > Stand with me Tony, you aren't dead yet!
>> >
>> >
>> > http://www.change.org/petitions/penland-school-board-chairman-repay-th=
=3D
e-artists
>> > Mel Thompson
>> >
>> > On Thu, Aug 23, 2012 at 4:33 PM, tony clennell =3D
m>
>> > wrote:
>> >>
>> >> I applaud John Britt's efforts to right previous wrongs to the hourly
>> >> workers at Penland but I can't help but think of advice given by acto=
=3D
r
>> >> Richard Gere to Dan Rather when he was fired from the network for
>> >> comments about W-ya's service record. Richard whispered in Dan's ear =
=3D
"
>> >> So ya got screwed. It happens all the time in my business . Get over
>> >> it!" I have taken Rick's advice to heart over the past few years when
>> >> I have worked my arse off and not been rewarded. I used to say of
>> >> myself "Why would they buy the cow when they get the milk for free?"
>> >> but now I follow Rick's advice- So ya got screwed, get over it! I
>> >> focus on what I can do for tomorrow and kinda right off yesterday. At
>> >> age 61 I only have so much energy to spend so I am focusing on today
>> >> and tomorrow.
>> >> Hey John are you still on Clayart? You ought to be. I applaud your
>> >> chip but wonder if this in the end is good for John. Been there, done
>> >> that and bought the t-shirt. I don't wear it anymore. Grew out of it
>> >> in more ways than one. Maybe it's called getting old.
>> >> All the best,
>> >> Tony
>> >>
>> >>
>> >>
>> >> --
>> >>
>> >>
>> >> http://smokieclennell.blogspot.com
>> >
>> >
>> >
>> >
>> > --
>> > Regards,
>> >
>> > John
>> >
>> > John Britt Pottery
>> >
>>
>>
>>
>> --
>>
>>
>> http://smokieclennell.blogspot.com
>
>
>
>
> --
> Regards,
>
> John
>
> John Britt Pottery
>
--=3D20
http://smokieclennell.blogspot.com
John Britt on fri 24 aug 12
Tony,
I remember that- your time with Malcolm. At that time, I was
a satisfied Penland employee. Little did I know what they were doing behind
the scenes. I think I gave you some shit for complaining then!? Please
accept my apology! This is actually the great part about Clayart. The
history and the lights that come on during the rants! Love it!
I am proud to have you on board Tony Clennell. For the artists and
craftspeople who follow behind us when we are dead! Here Here.
On Fri, Aug 24, 2012 at 10:23 AM, tony clennell wr=
=3D
ote:
> Alright Johnnie. I have signed up. I am an arts activist and that is
> why I posted my workshop fees a month or so ago. I was not bragging! I
> was like you saying professionals need to be paid professional wages.
> I am a professional studio potter not a starving artist and never
> intend to be. I had a Penland scratch your head moment some years ago
> when the late Malcolm Davis asked me to be his assistant for a winter
> residency (6 weeks I believe). I was offered $75 a week. I didn't even
> get offered a travel allowance. Yeah, it would have looked good on my
> CV but not so good on the kitchen table. It would have been great to
> spend that time with Malcolm but Sheila and our livelihood comes
> first.
> Fight, big fighter, fight!
> tony
>
> On Fri, Aug 24, 2012 at 9:18 AM, John Britt
> wrote:
> > Tony,
> >
> > To me this represents all the arts organizations who routinely abuse
> > workers. Not volunteers... that I get. But we do have labor laws in th=
=3D
e
> US
> > that apply to all employers and do not exempt arts organizations.
> >
> > I can also understand small arts groups that are struggling and can
> barely
> > pay the director let alone a bunch of workers and overtime. But in the
> case
> > of Penland, which once was a small struggling arts organization but now
> it
> > has assets of $27,000, 000.
> >
> > Here is their 990:
> >
> > http://dynamodata.fdncenter.org/990s/990search/esearch.php
> >
> > You can see that those assets went from $9,000,000 in 2003 to
> $27,000,000 in
> > 2011. So during the time of their illegal overtime practices they were
> > amassing a consider amount of money yet were somehow unable to pay thei=
=3D
r
> > artists/workers what the law required. And now they make around $500,00=
=3D
0
> at
> > their yearly auction with work that is donated by artists and can't fin=
=3D
d
> a
> > penny to pay the artists who worked for them? Perplexing to me.
> >
> > I just don't put them in the same boat as a small struggling arts group=
=3D
.
> > They should be leading the fight for ethical treatment of working artis=
=3D
ts
> > not abusing them!
> >
> > Anyway, it us just my position that if this wealthy institution, with i=
=3D
t
> > mission to promote artists and craft, can't do right by artists then wh=
=3D
y
> > should we stand by silently and accept it? Why should be continue to
> donate
> > art for the auction?
> >
> > I understand it from BP Oil but Penland? They must do better.
> >
> > So if anyone wants to help please join the petition for a better workin=
=3D
g
> > environment for artists. If they step up perhaps others will follow!
> >
> >
> http://www.change.org/petitions/penland-school-board-chairman-repay-the-a=
=3D
rtists
> >
> >
> > On Fri, Aug 24, 2012 at 8:51 AM, tony clennell =3D
>
> > wrote:
> >>
> >> Alright Johnnie I'm right behind you holding your coat while you roll
> >> up your sleeves. You're absolutely correct in your actions. In the
> >> words of one of my favourite radio hosts Captain Jack Farr- "Fight,
> >> big fighter, fight!" Float like a butterfly and sting like a bee.
> >> Tony
> >>
> >> On Thu, Aug 23, 2012 at 4:46 PM, John Britt =3D
m
> >
> >> wrote:
> >> > Tony,
> >> >
> >> > I understand your sentiment. But since I am a few years younger ;-)
> >> > I
> >> > would say that a some point in life you have to stand up for what is
> >> > right.
> >> > If you let injustice exist where you see it, then you are responsibl=
=3D
e
> >> > for
> >> > it. (e.g.Penn State)
> >> >
> >> > Or as Martin Luther King said: " If You Don=3D92t Stand Up For Just=
ic=3D
e,
> You
> >> > Die
> >> > Even If You Live To Be 90"
> >> >
> >> > So this is my chance to try to right a wrong, even if it is only at
> one
> >> > institution! You wouldn't believe now many letter I have gotten
> saying
> >> > that
> >> > this happened to them at such and such art school.
> >> >
> >> > So if no one stands up we are all sitting on our asses....or as Hail=
=3D
e
> >> > Selassie said:
> >> >
> >> > =3D93Throughout history, it has been the inaction of those who could=
h=3D
ave
> >> > acted;
> >> > the indifference of those who should have known better; the silence =
=3D
of
> >> > the
> >> > voice of justice when it mattered most; that has made it possible fo=
=3D
r
> >> > evil
> >> > to triumph.=3D94
> >> >
> >> > So I am standing up the the little guy, the artist who is too afraid
> to
> >> > speak out.
> >> >
> >> > Stand with me Tony, you aren't dead yet!
> >> >
> >> >
> >> >
> http://www.change.org/petitions/penland-school-board-chairman-repay-the-a=
=3D
rtists
> >> > Mel Thompson
> >> >
> >> > On Thu, Aug 23, 2012 at 4:33 PM, tony clennell <
> tony.clennell@gmail.com>
> >> > wrote:
> >> >>
> >> >> I applaud John Britt's efforts to right previous wrongs to the hour=
=3D
ly
> >> >> workers at Penland but I can't help but think of advice given by
> actor
> >> >> Richard Gere to Dan Rather when he was fired from the network for
> >> >> comments about W-ya's service record. Richard whispered in Dan's ea=
=3D
r
> "
> >> >> So ya got screwed. It happens all the time in my business . Get ove=
=3D
r
> >> >> it!" I have taken Rick's advice to heart over the past few years wh=
=3D
en
> >> >> I have worked my arse off and not been rewarded. I used to say of
> >> >> myself "Why would they buy the cow when they get the milk for free?=
=3D
"
> >> >> but now I follow Rick's advice- So ya got screwed, get over it! I
> >> >> focus on what I can do for tomorrow and kinda right off yesterday. =
=3D
At
> >> >> age 61 I only have so much energy to spend so I am focusing on toda=
=3D
y
> >> >> and tomorrow.
> >> >> Hey John are you still on Clayart? You ought to be. I applaud your
> >> >> chip but wonder if this in the end is good for John. Been there, do=
=3D
ne
> >> >> that and bought the t-shirt. I don't wear it anymore. Grew out of i=
=3D
t
> >> >> in more ways than one. Maybe it's called getting old.
> >> >> All the best,
> >> >> Tony
> >> >>
> >> >>
> >> >>
> >> >> --
> >> >>
> >> >>
> >> >> http://smokieclennell.blogspot.com
> >> >
> >> >
> >> >
> >> >
> >> > --
> >> > Regards,
> >> >
> >> > John
> >> >
> >> > John Britt Pottery
> >> >
> >>
> >>
> >>
> >> --
> >>
> >>
> >> http://smokieclennell.blogspot.com
> >
> >
> >
> >
> > --
> > Regards,
> >
> > John
> >
> > John Britt Pottery
> >
>
>
>
> --
>
>
> http://smokieclennell.blogspot.com
>
--=3D20
Regards,
John
John Britt Pottery
Randall Moody on fri 24 aug 12
More information on this from the other side.
http://penland.org/about/response.html
Rimas' wife had it right.
--
Randall in Atlanta
http://wrandallmoody.com
Nancy Gallagher on fri 24 aug 12
So they only paid the people who complained about it at the time?? What the=
h=3D
eck?
Nancy Gallagher
http://www.gallagherpottery.com
On Aug 24, 2012, at 2:42 PM, Randall Moody wrote:
> More information on this from the other side.
> http://penland.org/about/response.html
>=3D20
> Rimas' wife had it right.
>=3D20
>=3D20
> --
> Randall in Atlanta
> http://wrandallmoody.com
Randall Moody on fri 24 aug 12
No. re-read that again.
On Fri, Aug 24, 2012 at 4:02 PM, Nancy Gallagher wro=
te:
> So they only paid the people who complained about it at the time?? What
> the heck?
>
> Nancy Gallagher
> http://www.gallagherpottery.com
>
> On Aug 24, 2012, at 2:42 PM, Randall Moody
> wrote:
>
> > More information on this from the other side.
> > http://penland.org/about/response.html
> >
> > Rimas' wife had it right.
> >
> >
> > --
> > Randall in Atlanta
> > http://wrandallmoody.com
>
--
Randall in Atlanta
http://wrandallmoody.com
John Britt on fri 24 aug 12
If anyone is interested in the details, I posted a reply to Penland:
http://ncclayclub.blogspot.com/2012/08/penland-response-2-john-britts-
response.html
John Britt Pottery
Join our petition:
http://www.change.org/petitions/penland-school-board-chairman-repay-
the-artists
Nancy Gallagher on fri 24 aug 12
> >>At that time, in August, 2007, following the advice of counsel,
Penland provided remedial pay to its then-current employees, and to
former employees who came forward at that time, for overtime worked
during the previous two years
That's what I read.
On 8/24/12 4:39 PM, Randall Moody wrote:
> No. re-read that again.
>
> On Fri, Aug 24, 2012 at 4:02 PM, Nancy Gallagher
> > wrote:
>
> So they only paid the people who complained about it at the time??
> What the heck?
>
> Nancy Gallagher
> http://www.gallagherpottery.com
>
Vince Pitelka on fri 24 aug 12
Hi John-
At this point, doesn't it seem like Penland really has made a good-faith
effort to deal with these problems and they are sincere in their efforts,
and doesn't it seem like promoting this boycott and petition might hurt one
of the most important and valuable facilities for fine craft in North
America today? Considering the complexity of the bureaucracy at a facility
like Penland, I'd say give them a break. Maybe it's time to drop this and g=
o
on with life and support Penland as the extraordinary facility that it is
and for all the good they do.
I have never taught a workshop at Penland and have no personal investment i=
n
the facility, but I have heard nothing but good things from my students who
have taken workshops or concentrations there or have served as assistants o=
r
work-study students. Every single one of them has profited greatly from th=
e
experience. Do you really want to throw a monkey wrench into the works of
Penland. Really? Aren't there much better causes to focus your attention
on?
- Vince
Vince Pitelka
Appalachian Center for Craft
Tennessee Tech University
vpitelka@dtccom.net
http://iweb.tntech.edu/wpitelka/
John Britt on fri 24 aug 12
Vince,
So Penland should be allowed to break Federal Labor laws because your
friends had a good experience?
On Fri, Aug 24, 2012 at 6:45 PM, Vince Pitelka wrote:
> Hi John-
> At this point, doesn't it seem like Penland really has made a good-faith
> effort to deal with these problems and they are sincere in their efforts,
> and doesn't it seem like promoting this boycott and petition might hurt o=
ne
> of the most important and valuable facilities for fine craft in North
> America today? Considering the complexity of the bureaucracy at a facilit=
y
> like Penland, I'd say give them a break. Maybe it's time to drop this and
> go
> on with life and support Penland as the extraordinary facility that it is
> and for all the good they do.
>
> I have never taught a workshop at Penland and have no personal investment
> in
> the facility, but I have heard nothing but good things from my students w=
ho
> have taken workshops or concentrations there or have served as assistants
> or
> work-study students. Every single one of them has profited greatly from
> the
> experience. Do you really want to throw a monkey wrench into the works o=
f
> Penland. Really? Aren't there much better causes to focus your attention
> on?
> - Vince
>
> Vince Pitelka
> Appalachian Center for Craft
> Tennessee Tech University
> vpitelka@dtccom.net
> http://iweb.tntech.edu/wpitelka/
>
>
>
>
--
Regards,
John
John Britt Pottery
Randall Moody on fri 24 aug 12
On Fri, Aug 24, 2012 at 6:45 PM, Vince Pitelka wrote:
> Hi John-
> At this point, doesn't it seem like Penland really has made a good-faith
> effort to deal with these problems and they are sincere in their efforts,
> and doesn't it seem like promoting this boycott and petition might hurt o=
ne
> of the most important and valuable facilities for fine craft in North
> America today? Considering the complexity of the bureaucracy at a facilit=
y
> like Penland, I'd say give them a break. Maybe it's time to drop this and
> go
> on with life and support Penland as the extraordinary facility that it is
> and for all the good they do.
>
>
> - Vince
>
> Vince Pitelka
> Appalachian Center for Craft
> Tennessee Tech University
> vpitelka@dtccom.net
> http://iweb.tntech.edu/wpitelka/
>
Vince, I could not agree more. It has devolved into a he said/she said
circular argument that is, rightly or wrongly, more and more coming off as
sour grapes.
--
Randall in Atlanta
http://wrandallmoody.com
Randall Moody on fri 24 aug 12
That isn't what he said John.
On Fri, Aug 24, 2012 at 7:56 PM, John Britt wro=
te:
> Vince,
>
> So Penland should be allowed to break Federal Labor laws because your
> friends had a good experience?
>
> On Fri, Aug 24, 2012 at 6:45 PM, Vince Pitelka
> wrote:
>
> > Hi John-
> > At this point, doesn't it seem like Penland really has made a good-fait=
h
> > effort to deal with these problems and they are sincere in their effort=
s,
> > and doesn't it seem like promoting this boycott and petition might hurt
> one
> > of the most important and valuable facilities for fine craft in North
> > America today? Considering the complexity of the bureaucracy at a
> facility
> > like Penland, I'd say give them a break. Maybe it's time to drop this a=
nd
> > go
> > on with life and support Penland as the extraordinary facility that it =
is
> > and for all the good they do.
> >
> > I have never taught a workshop at Penland and have no personal investme=
nt
> > in
> > the facility, but I have heard nothing but good things from my students
> who
> > have taken workshops or concentrations there or have served as assistan=
ts
> > or
> > work-study students. Every single one of them has profited greatly fro=
m
> > the
> > experience. Do you really want to throw a monkey wrench into the works
> of
> > Penland. Really? Aren't there much better causes to focus your attenti=
on
> > on?
> > - Vince
> >
> > Vince Pitelka
> > Appalachian Center for Craft
> > Tennessee Tech University
> > vpitelka@dtccom.net
> > http://iweb.tntech.edu/wpitelka/
> >
> >
> >
> >
>
>
> --
> Regards,
>
> John
>
> John Britt Pottery
>
--
Randall in Atlanta
http://wrandallmoody.com
Vince Pitelka on fri 24 aug 12
John Britt wrote:
=3D93Vince, so Penland should be allowed to break Federal Labor laws =3D
because
your friends had a good experience?=3D94
John -=3D20
I really don=3D92t know what to tell you in this situation. It=3D92s obviou=
s =3D
that
you did not read my message carefully or take it seriously at all, and I
must assume that you have done the same with the messages from Penland. =3D
This
is not something you should pursue, John. You are going to do damage, =3D
and
nothing will be gained. The people I spoke about were not friends. =3D
They
were current or former students, representative of thousands of students =
=3D
who
have had fantastic and often life-changing experiences of Penland. Get =3D
off
your high horse and look at this from a reasonable perspective. Prove =3D
to us
that you can do that. =3D20
- Vince
Vince Pitelka
Appalachian Center for Craft
Tennessee Tech University
vpitelka@dtccom.net
http://iweb.tntech.edu/wpitelka/
From: John Britt [mailto:johnbrittpottery@gmail.com]=3D20
Sent: Friday, August 24, 2012 6:56 PM
To: Vince Pitelka
Subject: Re: Penland Boycott
On Fri, Aug 24, 2012 at 6:45 PM, Vince Pitelka =3D
wrote:
Hi John-
At this point, doesn't it seem like Penland really has made a good-faith
effort to deal with these problems and they are sincere in their =3D
efforts,
and doesn't it seem like promoting this boycott and petition might hurt =3D
one
of the most important and valuable facilities for fine craft in North
America today? Considering the complexity of the bureaucracy at a =3D
facility
like Penland, I'd say give them a break. Maybe it's time to drop this =3D
and go
on with life and support Penland as the extraordinary facility that it =3D
is
and for all the good they do.
I have never taught a workshop at Penland and have no personal =3D
investment in
the facility, but I have heard nothing but good things from my students =3D
who
have taken workshops or concentrations there or have served as =3D
assistants or
work-study students. =3DA0Every single one of them has profited greatly =3D
from the
experience. =3DA0Do you really want to throw a monkey wrench into the =3D
works of
Penland. =3DA0Really? Aren't there much better causes to focus your =3D
attention
on?
- Vince
Vince Pitelka
Appalachian Center for Craft
Tennessee Tech University
vpitelka@dtccom.net
http://iweb.tntech.edu/wpitelka/
--=3D20
Regards,
John=3DA0
John Britt Pottery=3DA0
Amy Waller on fri 24 aug 12
Wow, Vince. Just want to say I completely disagree with what you said in
this email and your previous one, too. It takes courage to stand up like
John is doing in this situation. As far as I'm concerned, your reasons for
telling John that this is something he should not pursue are exactly the
reasons I applaud what he is doing.
On Fri, Aug 24, 2012 at 9:37 PM, Vince Pitelka wrote:
John Britt wrote:
=3D93Vince, so Penland should be allowed to break Federal Labor laws becaus=
e
your friends had a good experience?=3D94
John -
I really don=3D92t know what to tell you in this situation. It=3D92s obviou=
s th=3D
at
you did not read my message carefully or take it seriously at all, and I
must assume that you have done the same with the messages from Penland. Thi=
=3D
s
is not something you should pursue, John. You are going to do damage, and
nothing will be gained. The people I spoke about were not friends. They
were current or former students, representative of thousands of students wh=
=3D
o
have had fantastic and often life-changing experiences of Penland. Get off
your high horse and look at this from a reasonable perspective. Prove to u=
=3D
s
that you can do that.
- Vince
Vince Pitelka
Appalachian Center for Craft
Tennessee Tech University
vpitelka@dtccom.net
http://iweb.tntech.edu/wpitelka/
From: John Britt [mailto:johnbrittpottery@gmail.com]
Sent: Friday, August 24, 2012 6:56 PM
To: Vince Pitelka
Subject: Re: Penland Boycott
On Fri, Aug 24, 2012 at 6:45 PM, Vince Pitelka wrote:
Hi John-
At this point, doesn't it seem like Penland really has made a good-faith
effort to deal with these problems and they are sincere in their efforts,
and doesn't it seem like promoting this boycott and petition might hurt one
of the most important and valuable facilities for fine craft in North
America today? Considering the complexity of the bureaucracy at a facility
like Penland, I'd say give them a break. Maybe it's time to drop this and g=
=3D
o
on with life and support Penland as the extraordinary facility that it is
and for all the good they do.
I have never taught a workshop at Penland and have no personal investment i=
=3D
n
the facility, but I have heard nothing but good things from my students who
have taken workshops or concentrations there or have served as assistants o=
=3D
r
work-study students. Every single one of them has profited greatly from th=
=3D
e
experience. Do you really want to throw a monkey wrench into the works of
Penland. Really? Aren't there much better causes to focus your attention
on?
- Vince
Vince Pitelka
Appalachian Center for Craft
Tennessee Tech University
vpitelka@dtccom.net
http://iweb.tntech.edu/wpitelka/
--
Regards,
John
John Britt Pottery
John Britt on sat 25 aug 12
Vince,
I read your letter and understood it. It is clear but won't spell it out in
detail.
The damage that happens to Penland is their own doing. I have spent 5 years
trying to get the board to do the right thing and now find out the they did
not live up to the terms of our agreement. I have had numerous meetings
with board members and most recently I was told to "bring it".
So if Penland wants to resolve this, then I am happy to, but a continued
string of lies is unacceptable. The board is supporting this string of
lies.
So if you think that institutions can do whatever they want with no
consequences then that is your right. I happen to believe that institutions
should follow Federal laws, honor agreements and treat employees fairly.
Especially arts organizations.
And if I, or anyone, wants to donate or attend institutions then that is
their right. Penland has no moral right to donations or students. They have
to earn it.
Glad you weren't the adviser to Cesar Chavez! Americans have a moral right
to cheap grapes too.
I have to go feed my horse...he is so tall!
On Fri, Aug 24, 2012 at 9:37 PM, Vince Pitelka wrote:
> John Britt wrote:
> =3D93Vince, so Penland should be allowed to break Federal Labor laws beca=
us=3D
e
> your friends had a good experience?=3D94
>
> John -
> I really don=3D92t know what to tell you in this situation. It=3D92s obvi=
ous =3D
that
> you did not read my message carefully or take it seriously at all, and I
> must assume that you have done the same with the messages from Penland.
> This
> is not something you should pursue, John. You are going to do damage, an=
=3D
d
> nothing will be gained. The people I spoke about were not friends. They
> were current or former students, representative of thousands of students
> who
> have had fantastic and often life-changing experiences of Penland. Get o=
=3D
ff
> your high horse and look at this from a reasonable perspective. Prove to
> us
> that you can do that.
> - Vince
>
> Vince Pitelka
> Appalachian Center for Craft
> Tennessee Tech University
> vpitelka@dtccom.net
> http://iweb.tntech.edu/wpitelka/
>
>
>
> From: John Britt [mailto:johnbrittpottery@gmail.com]
> Sent: Friday, August 24, 2012 6:56 PM
> To: Vince Pitelka
> Subject: Re: Penland Boycott
>
>
>
> On Fri, Aug 24, 2012 at 6:45 PM, Vince Pitelka
> wrote:
> Hi John-
> At this point, doesn't it seem like Penland really has made a good-faith
> effort to deal with these problems and they are sincere in their efforts,
> and doesn't it seem like promoting this boycott and petition might hurt o=
=3D
ne
> of the most important and valuable facilities for fine craft in North
> America today? Considering the complexity of the bureaucracy at a facilit=
=3D
y
> like Penland, I'd say give them a break. Maybe it's time to drop this and
> go
> on with life and support Penland as the extraordinary facility that it is
> and for all the good they do.
>
> I have never taught a workshop at Penland and have no personal investment
> in
> the facility, but I have heard nothing but good things from my students w=
=3D
ho
> have taken workshops or concentrations there or have served as assistants
> or
> work-study students. Every single one of them has profited greatly from
> the
> experience. Do you really want to throw a monkey wrench into the works o=
=3D
f
> Penland. Really? Aren't there much better causes to focus your attention
> on?
> - Vince
>
> Vince Pitelka
> Appalachian Center for Craft
> Tennessee Tech University
> vpitelka@dtccom.net
> http://iweb.tntech.edu/wpitelka/
>
>
>
>
>
>
> --
> Regards,
>
> John
>
> John Britt Pottery
>
>
>
--=3D20
Regards,
John
John Britt Pottery
forvr22@AOL.COM on sun 26 aug 12
I have a little different perspective on why this issue is important. Penl=
=3D
and, being a non-profit that is constantly seeking donations must be comple=
=3D
tely above board and transparent with all things financial. I have been to=
=3D
Penland numerous times, it can be a truly life changing experience for you=
=3D
r clay work or whatever medium. To continue their legacy it is most importa=
=3D
nt that anyone donating has confidence that their donation go where intende=
=3D
d and have no concern that it will be diverted. For such a place absolute =
=3D
integrity is a must, and so any issue should not be handled casually. As d=
=3D
escribed by Tony, those scratch your head moments, just take an edge off. =
=3D
Hopefully Penland will take this opportunity to decide what their path will=
=3D
be, and take the opportunity to assure every approach is the most straight=
=3D
forward.
Joan, a long time lurker, who really has that ahaa feeling anytime you driv=
=3D
e around the curve at Penland and see the valley open up in front of the Cr=
=3D
aft House and Dining Hall.
-----Original Message-----
From: John Britt
To: Clayart
Sent: Fri, Aug 24, 2012 11:40 am
Subject: Re: Penland Boycott
Tony,
I remember that- your time with Malcolm. At that time, I was
a satisfied Penland employee. Little did I know what they were doing behind
the scenes. I think I gave you some shit for complaining then!? Please
accept my apology! This is actually the great part about Clayart. The
history and the lights that come on during the rants! Love it!
On Fri, Aug 24, 2012 at 10:23 AM, tony clennell wr=
=3D
ote:
>=3D20
I had a Penland scratch your head moment some years ago
> when the late Malcolm Davis asked me to be his assistant for a winter
> residency (6 weeks I believe). I was offered $75 a week. I didn't even
> get offered a travel allowance.=3D20
> >
> >
=3D20
John Britt on wed 29 aug 12
Just in case you think it is only me:
http://www.studiopotterarchiveblog.com/2012/08/penland-stumbles-on-
past-violation-of-worker-wages-most-recently-on-public-relations-letter-
addressing-same-topic/
John Britt
Randall Moody on wed 29 aug 12
They are only echoing your complaints. I don't see anything that you have
listed that takes a fair and unbiased approach to the subject.
On Wed, Aug 29, 2012 at 10:02 AM, John Britt wr=
ote:
> Just in case you think it is only me:
>
> http://www.studiopotterarchiveblog.com/2012/08/penland-stumbles-on-
> past-violation-of-worker-wages-most-recently-on-public-relations-letter-
> addressing-same-topic/
>
> John Britt
>
--
Randall in Atlanta
http://wrandallmoody.com
| |
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