Clemson ceramic studio presents Spring Ceramic Sale inspired by NCECA Conference travel

Students and the public are invited to join ceramics enthusiasts for the annual Spring Ceramic Studio Sale on Wednesday, April 24 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the Lee Gallery Hallway. The sale, hosted by the Clemson Ceramics Association student organization within the Department of Art at Clemson University, offers a wide selection of functional ceramic work by talented students and faculty at various price points. 

All proceeds from the sale will go towards supporting student scholarships and annual travel to the National Council on Education for the Ceramics Arts (NCECA) Conference.

While many college students headed to the beach for spring break, a group of ten art students and two faculty members from the Clemson University ceramics studio embarked on a different journey. They attended the National Council on Education for the Ceramic Arts (NCECA) conference for research and to gain networking opportunities. The conference is international in scope and draws over six thousand participants annually, allowing participants to explore the newest trends, techniques, and conversations within ceramic arts.

The 58th Annual NCECA Conference, themed “Coalescence,” took place in Richmond, Virginia, offering a vibrant setting conducive to learning, collaboration, and inspiration. Clemson’s ceramics studio has participated at the NCECA conference for over four decades, underscoring the University’s ongoing commitment to fostering excellence in ceramic education and scholarship.

President of the Clemson Ceramics Association (CCA) Hailey Blackwelder, shared her thoughts on the conference.

“I was captivated by the dynamic energy and sense of community at NCECA,” Blackwelder expressed. “Connecting with fellow ceramic enthusiasts from around the globe provided invaluable insights and fresh perspectives for my ceramic practice. The workshops and presentations offered profound insights I’m eager to incorporate into my work. The experience was incredibly enriching as a student, reinforcing my passion for ceramics.”

Students and faculty host a Clemson table each year to provide information on ceramics undergraduate and the MFA Visual Arts program.

Following the NCECA conference, Clemson University ceramic students returned with renewed inspiration and valuable connections to enhance their artistic endeavors. Their experiences have translated into fresh works to be found in the Spring Ceramic Studio Sale, taking place on Wednesday, April 24, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the Lee Gallery Hallway. The Spring Sale features a wide variety of wearable and functional ceramic creations by students and faculty, featuring pieces at diverse price ranges. The sale continues a long-standing tradition of support from the Clemson and surrounding community to acquire unique pieces while championing student research, scholarships and NCECA Conference travel. 

While perusing the sale on Wednesday, visitors are also encouraged to view the 2024 Spring BFA Senior Exhibition in the Lee Gallery, with works by graduation candidates Susan Sorohan, Layne Cromer, Lizetta Halter-Macinnes, Audrey Hunt, and Molly Rembold.

For further details about this week’s Spring Ceramics Sale or the Fall Ceramic Bowl Sale scheduled for November 13, 2024, contact Art Department Chair and Professor Valerie Zimany at vzimany@clemson.edu or Lecturer of Art in Ceramics John Cummings at jhcummi@clemson.edu.