Lee Love on sun 28 aug 05
On 2005/08/28 13:36:44, L-Soft list server at clayart (1.8d)
(listserv@lsv.ceramics.org) wrote:
>
> > Tony, this hits on how I have always chosen "where" to study.
> > Pick the "who" first. The teacher is more important than the place.
>
> Generally I think this is good advice, but it is also important not to
> succumb to the temptation to pick someone who does work like you want
to do.
It isn't necessary. But what is necessary, is that they respect what
you do. When I took classes at the UofMn, I thought my work was more
related to one instructior's work. But I had a better rapport with
the other instructor. He was enthusiastic about my work.
If you are looking at the MFA for a teaching job, you
need to get under someone's wing. There are way too many MFAs and
too few teaching positions. If you are not thinking about teaching,
it is not so important.
I am ecuminecal about where one might study pottery, not
favoring apprenticeships over studio arts or craft centers or
cooperatives. I only mention apprenticeships because they are often
overlooked.
But back to my original recommendation: If you are primarily
interested in becoming a better craftsman/artist and not university
teaching creditials: find the teacher first, reguardless of where they
teach. Find someone you can communicate with. Immerse yourself in
their way. Digest it completely, then make something of your own out
of it.
Has always worked for me, weather it be a martial arts
teacher, zen teacher, pottery or woodblock sensei.
I am currently studying woodblock printing with
the best printmaker in the area. I study with him at a hanga club at
the local community center. An oppertunity like this one is not
available at any university.
We went to the Shoji Hamada opening at
Yamani's (will post images of the pots later.) Downstairs we came
across the Mashiko Summer Matsuri fans. They had the image of the
Summer greeting print out moku hanga teacher gave us. You can see Jean
with the fan here:
http://togei.blogspot.com/
Lee In Mashiko, Japan
William & Susan Schran User on sun 28 aug 05
On 8/28/05 1:31 AM, "Lee Love" wrote:
> If you are looking at the MFA for a teaching job, you
> need to get under someone's wing. There are way too many MFAs and
> too few teaching positions. If you are not thinking about teaching,
> it is not so important.
The teaching/learning aspect of this can't be understated.
Best thing would be to get in a situation where you could participate in
teaching - introducing a project, assisting in the studio, etc.
But also just as important, learning how to use & repair equipment.
--
William "Bill" Schran
Fredericksburg, Virginia
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