A potter’s assistant position lasting for one to two years is available beginning in late May, 2004. This includes the use of a wheel, materials, studio space and up to ½ glaze kiln space per month at no charge.

I have an M.F.A. from the University of Iowa, 1975 and have taught at the secondary and college levels. I intend to give an academic approach to the educational aspects of working in my studio rather than a “training only” approach. I am looking for someone with basic throwing skills and technical knowledge who wants to move toward a professional level or build a portfolio for application to graduate schools. Working here will provide education in the business of pottery, an issue that most academic programs do not address.


My studio is located in the basement of my home and in an out building ( approximately 3000sq. ft. in total) located about 10 miles from downtown Asheville, NC. The surrounding area is mountainous and provides a stimulating environment for a flourishing arts and crafts community. Asheville rates high on the list of “arts destinations” and has a rather liberal ambiance. I would recommend a visit to the studio and area if possible before finalizing any plans.

If you would like to apply for the position, please send the following materials at your earliest
convenience:
1.Educational background (transcripts etc.)
2. Past work experience in clay or otherwise
3.Three letters of recommendation including professional and character references
4.At least 5 photos or slides of recent work
5.A personal statement indicating what you would like to gain from the experience.

Please feel free to call or e-mail me. I look forward to hearing from you.

Sincerely,
Hank Goodman

Potter’s Assistant Job Description

Salary will begin at $6.50/hr. during the training period and will be raised commensurately with skill and effort. Housing and transportation are not provided. Rent runs $300.00-$350.00/month in the area. Some meals are provided. The intern is provided a wheel, studio and kiln space, including some materials. The area provides various venues for the sale of pottery produced by the intern.

The more important aspects of internship are the opportunities for growth and learning. Expert
instruction and criticism (technical and aesthetic) is provided as the need arises.

The intern is expected to help with yard and garden on occasion.

Studio duties begin with the following:
Cleaning, cleaning greenware, waxing, loading and unloading kilns, grinding bottoms of glazed ware, reclaiming scrap and piecework (filling hump-molds with slabs). Additional salary is paid for the production of piecework. A driver’s license is required for delivering and errands. Duties and salary will increase with training. Work begins at 8:30 am M-F.

Studio and Equipment

The studio is approximately 3000 sq. ft. including outbuildings. The throwing, forming and glaze areas are located in the basement of the residence.

Major equipment includes; 100cu.ft. fiber car kiln with 70-14”x 28” shelves, Venco de-airing pugmill, Peter Pugger mixer/pugmill, 12 ware carts, large spray booth, Bailey 30” electric slab roller, Bailey pneumatic extruder, Shimpo wheels and large oval electric kiln for bisque. Clay is purchased mixed and boxed but recycled in studio.

The studio is closed after 6:30 pm M-F, 2:00pm Saturday and all day Sunday. These hours are established to provide some privacy since the studio is located at the residence. Exceptions to these hours may be taken into consideration. No pets are allowed.