Getting into the industry
Entering the world of ceramics can feel daunting, especially when trying to balance making rent and finding a job that doesn't drain you. The barriers to breaking into creative fields can be high, but here's are a few resources and ways to get an entry level ceramics job.
The first thing to know is that studio jobs are rarely posted on job sites. Most opportunities are shared through word of mouth, so your best approach is to email the studio you’re interested in with a focused resume. Be sure to highlight your ceramics experience and your passion for the arts and avoid including irrelevant information as it can work against you. Studios may be creative spaces, but they’re still looking for the best fit, both in skills and personality.
Ask your local pottery studio if they are looking for studio technicians.
As a studio tech, you’ll receive hands-on training in essential tasks, from recycling clay to mixing glazes. Studio technicians are the backbone of a pottery studio, ensuring everything runs smoothly and stays clean. While the role involves a lot of physical labor, it’s an excellent way to get your foot in the door and quickly gain the practical knowledge needed for more advanced roles in the future.
Skills you gain as a studio technician:
Support the operation and maintenance of ceramics facilities, including kiln loading/unloading, glaze and clay mixing, and maintaining cleanliness of the studio.
Assist with daily studio flow, including firing schedules, equipment upkeep, and cleaning routines.
Ensure the safe use of equipment, tools, and materials, and communicate studio policies on health, safety, and cleanliness.
Collaborate with staff and faculty on facility improvements and glaze testing updates.
Typical requirements for this position:
Must be able to lift 50 lbs (the weight of a box of clay).
Must be able to work independently. Most studio technicians are working alone or outside of studio hours.
Work early morning or evening hours (when studios are closed).
A certain level of clay experience. You would need to feel comfortable and confident in teaching others the skills you know.
Begin shadowing instructors.
If your studio offers opportunities for you to teach, a good way to feel more prepared to take on a class is by shadowing instructors. This is a great opportunity to try on different teaching styles and learn from different ceramicists how they interact with students and which “tools” to add to your tool belt.
It was through teaching and hands on experience that really challenged me to become a better artist. Through dissecting a technique and explaining it to someone else, it gives you the opportunity to really understand that technique.
A ceramics instructors main role is to plan and deliver lessons on ceramics fundamentals, including clay preparation, hand-building and/or wheel-throwing, glazing, and firing. They demonstrate helpful techniques, offer feedback, assess student progress, manage the classroom, and ensure safety and hygiene.
Skills you gain as an instructor:
Strength in communication and interpersonal skills
Confidence in public speaking
Maintaining and understanding studio equipment and supplies
Personal growth in your own ceramic knowledge.
Typical (but not concrete) requirements for beginner instruction:
Pottery wheel and/or hand building experience. Confidence in fundamental ceramics techniques
Knowledge of how to troubleshoot with students
Patience
Prior teaching experience (not necessarily ceramics related)
Selling at local Markets
Another way artists get into the pottery community in their area is by selling work at local markets. This is best for artists who have a strong/unique creative style and who have the time to hustle. This isn’t for everyone as the pros have to weigh out the cons.
This can be fun especially if you team up with a couple other artists and sell your work as a group. This will help with some of the initial vender costs.
The start up costs for selling in markets are much higher than if you were to sell in a local gallery. Here are some of the common costs for selling in markets (this information may vary from market to market).
Market Fees: Costs for booth space or vendor fees at art markets or craft fairs. These can be anywhere from $75-$400 in vender fees. This is often inaccessible for beginner artists and artists without a large following. I’ve found that in most larger cities there are programs that can help artists with these vendor fees by covering up to $150 worth of fees.
Smaller farmers market fees tend to be more forgiving, but there is higher competition due to that reason.
Here in Seattle, Pottery Northwest has a program for covering a portion of vender fees and materials. You can follow this link to learn more.
Booth and Marketing Materials: Expenses for a tent (if outdoors), tables, display racks, and signage. Business cards, flyers, or promotional materials.
Inventory and Storage: Initial costs for materials and supplies used in creating art. As well as if you need additional space to store inventory or supplies.
Miscellaneous: Extra costs like packaging, tools, or cleaning supplies.
The Nitty Gritty:
Liability insurance to cover potential accidents or damage.
Local business licenses, vendor permits, or special event permits.
Costs for transporting your artwork and booth setup to and from the market.
Fees for credit card readers or mobile payment systems.
Costs can vary widely depending on the specific art market, scale of operation, and type of art. It’s a good idea to research individual markets for specific fees and requirements.
Apply to art exhibitions and shows
Applying to art shows can be an exciting way to showcase your work and gain exposure. Here’s a general guide to help you through the process:
Research Opportunities: Look for art shows, exhibitions, and galleries that align with your style and medium. Local arts organizations and social media platforms are great places to start. Pay attention to deadlines, themes, and requirements.
Prepare Your Portfolio:
Choose pieces that represent your style and strength. Ensure they are high-quality and relevant to the show’s theme.
Take professional-quality photos or scans of your artwork. Include details like dimensions, medium, and titles.
Each show will have its own set of requirements, which could include:
A brief explanation of your work and your artistic process in an artist statement.
Include your exhibition history, education, and relevant experience in the form of a website, resume, and/or CV. If required, craft a cover letter that introduces yourself, explains why you’re interested in the show, and highlights how your work fits with the show’s theme. This is a good time to refine your resume and website.
Some shows require a fee to enter. Make sure to pay attention to the amount and payment method. Depending on the gallery, these entry fees can be waived for Bipoc, queer, and low income artists. I’ve found that groups like Artist Trust will also cover these fees in the form of grants.
Submit Your Application: Follow the submission process carefully. Some shows accept applications online, while others might require physical submissions or emails.
If selected, you may need to:
Follow the specific instructions for how and when to deliver or ship your artwork.
Promote the show and the work you submitted on your social media.
Be prepared to attend the opening or other events if requested. This is a great opportunity to connect with your followers, friends, and family around you and the work you’ve make.
