The fifth and final session for the 2008 summer season at Watershed began last Sunday, August 10th…and what a perfect ending to a great summer!  Session 5, hosted by South Carolina artist Virginia Scotchie, includes invited artists Liegh Taylor-Mickelson (New York,) Ken Baskin (Louisianna,) Jeri Au (Moussori,) Jill Allen (Pennsylvania,) Piero Fenci (Texas,) Whitney Forsyth (Oklahoma,) Sheri McWilliams (Wisconsin,) Rocky Lewycky (California,) and Joanne Hayakawa (California.)  Session residents include Israeli artists Raya Stern and Eva Avidar, whose attendance was facilitated by AIDA (Association of Israel’s Decorative Arts,) as well as assistant residents Jeffrey Miller (Rhode Island) and Megan Mullins (Massachusetts.)

Virginia Scotchie’s Slate Knob Bowl.

This session is of particular interest to me, as it includes some of the most well respected artists working in ceramic sculpture today.  It is such a privilege to have the opportunity to spend time with this great group of individuals.  And even though some of these artists are regarded as the rock-stars of the clay world, the relaxed, communal vibe of Watershed seems to level the playing field somewhat.  The result being that everyone feels he or she has something to contribute, and we are all simply artists making our work.

Works in progress, by Joanne Hayakawa.

After the gentle quiet of last week’s writing session, the amazing life force of this fantastic group of artists is almost palpable in the factory studios.  A few of the residents arrived on Saturday evening, and more came early Sunday morning; so the studio was humming with activity by that afternoon.  The inspiration of the space at Watrshed seemed to hit these artists right away, and they quickly got down to the business of making art.  It was wonderful to see everyone express so much excitement over the beauty and energy of the Watershed environment.

Resident’s work drying in the sun.