All of us here at the Southwest School of Art & Craft join the many in San Antonio who mourn the loss of Regis Shephard, a great friend to our artists, faculty, staff and students. Regis died on Tuesday, July 27th at the age of 39.

Regis always had such a strong visual voice, and his art consistently addressed many important issues, both personal and global.  I worked with him several times over the past decade.  In our 2009 Texas Draws exhibition, Regis exhibited a triptych that dealt with his first brush with death and, in our 2002 exhibition Lines Drawn, he showcased a series of drawings responding to the 9/11 tragedy by addressing racial stereotyping.  When I curated an exhibition at the New Zealand tribal university, Te Whare Wananga O Awanuiarangi, it was a moment of cultural symbiosis to introduce his works to an entirely new audience.

Regis excelled as an educator, bringing his students to our school and engaging them with the power of art. We will miss his passion and voice, but remember our heartfelt connections with such a kind, genuine,  and honest soul.

Image: Death and The Endless Possibility: Self-Study, 2009, ink on canvas, 48″ x 36″

Remembering Regis Shephard is a post from: Art Musings

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We applaud the winners of the 2010 All School Exhibition.

These artist set a standard of excellence to which we can all aspire.

2010 All School Exhibition Best In Show

Lyn Woods · Sunset Storm

Department Awards

Best of Ceramics

Taaffe Caton · Nascent

Best of Fibers

Doerte Webber · 4 over 3 Blooming Leaf of Mexico

Best of Metals

Margarite Guggoltz  · Measure Up

Best of Painting, Drawing and Printmaking

Jennifer Polnaszek  · Oh Claire

Best of Photography

James Stopper  · Peeled Steel

Teaching Award

2010 Teacher of the Year

Diana Kersey · Fish & Frog Jar, Bird Jar

Pictures of the winning pieces coming soon. tell us- Did you take a class at SSAC this past year? What did you like/dislike about it?

What was your favorite piece in the show? Why?

2010 All School Exhibition Awards is a post from: Art Musings

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Student and the current metal clay instructor for the Metals Dept., Lorena Angulo, will be featured on the cover of Metal Clay Artist Magazine with a neckpiece that she made during a workshop with visiting artist, Bob Ebendorf.

More of Lorena Angulo’s work can be found at: http://www.lorenaangulo.com

Lorena Angulo is a post from: Art Musings

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It all starts on the Southwest School of Art and Craft website

Sonja Rossow will be here for another 2 weeks working in the Paper and Book Arts Department as an intern. She is a graduate student in the Book Arts Program at the University of Alabama. She has been printing cards for School by the River Press and working with students in both studios. She plans to come back next March to teach a three day letterpress class.

Lauren Faulkenberry, another friend and student from Alabama is here in town with a program for high school students at Trinity University. Her creative writing students will be in the studios here on June 28 to make some paper and print a book mark on the letterpress. They will hang out on our grounds and do some writing in the afternoon.

Cynthia Marsh from Clarksville, TN is back working in the paper and book studios. This is her third trip to San Antonio. After coming several years ago to teach a collaborative class presented by the SSAC and Gemini Ink, she returned in June of 2008 to study with me in the paper studio. This trip, I am helping her problem solve a book project so she is again working in both paper and book.

Personally, I have been working on several projects including a couple for Hand Papermaking Magazine. One is an article about the pulp painting symposium that took place here last January. That will be in the Winter 2011 issue. The second project is a sample book that is coming out this fall in an edition of 1000.

Hand Papermaking celebrates its 25th anniversary in 2011 with a special publication featuring paper samples from 25 renowned papermakers: Amanda Degener, Kathryn and Howard Clark, Richard Flavin, Helmut Becker, Anne Vilsboll, Susan Gosin, Margaret Sahlstrand, Asao Shimura, Neil Bonham, Margaret Prentice, Katie Macgregor and Bernie Vinzani, Beck Whitehead, Tim Barrett, Mark Lander, Peter Thomas, Karen Stahlecker, Beverly Sky, Tom Leech, John Risseeuw, Elaine and Donna Koretsky, Helen Hiebert, Paul Denhoed, Helen Frederick, Roberto Mannino, and Steve Miller. This book of samples will be uniquely bound with a letterpress-printed cover commissioned from one of four distinguished mills. “Hand Papermaking 25” will be issued on October 1, 2010 at $65 per copy. An attractive pre-publication price of $50 is offered until September 30. Postage is $4 in North America and $9 overseas.

The new exhibition, Essentials, opening at the Guadalupe June 24, 6 – 9P  and curated by Anita Valencia includes eight artists who work in 8 different media. The artists include myself and Jane Dunnewold. More information on this can be found at:

http://guadalupeculturalarts.org/exhibitions/essentials.htm

In the Garden #10 pulp painting

Paper Studio Update is a post from: Art Musings

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The dog days of summer are here- at least that is what our local weathermen are reporting. Regardless of where you live, something else is also heating up: summer classes at art centers around the nation.

Art Adventures Just Beyond Your Doorstep

A recent article by Sara Baker from American Style Magazine provided an extensive list of fun and approachable environments nationwide where you can spark your creative genius this summer. In fact, our very own Dennis Smith, Chair of the Ceramics department, found his picture gracing the headline of the story.  Learn more here:

It’s as Easy as 1, 2, 3

Image of Dennis Smith from America Style Magazine

Art Adventures Just Beyond Your Doorstep is a post from: Art Musings

Learn about more opportunities for art adventures. Be the first to hear about special discounts in our Gallery Shop. Register for a class and feed your mind.

It all starts on the Southwest School of Art and Craft website

School’s out, then what?

Summer break for kids is less than 2 weeks away. If you are a panicking parent, rest easy; we’ve got you covered.

Space in June Summer Art Camp still available

Lucky for you, limited space is still available in several Summer Art Camp classes in June, and enough variety exists to keep all kinds of kids content. Check out the list below, but register soon. Camp starts June 7.

• 5-6 year olds
• 7-9 year olds
• 8-12 year olds
• 10-14 year olds
• 14-18 year olds

5-6 year olds:

Primary Art

Draw A Story

7-9 year olds:

Portraiture

Memory Boxes

Tool Prints: Hammer, Saw & much more

Paint Like an Egyptian

First Drawing: Line & Shape

Master Artist: The Fauves

Like Matisse and other Fauvists painters, study the use of vivid colors. Working in a variety of media, create works that use expressive color to convey emotions, depict light, mood and define character.

8-12 year olds:

Frank-N-Janey

Don’t know much about biology? Create a simple rag doll/creature which you cut, sew, stuff and assemble. Add embroidered or painted faces, fill the doll with internal organs, and dress in clothes that you also create.

Tower Power

Employ a variety of techniques to draw San Antonio’s skyline of towers. Investigate the history, materials and construction styles of skyscrapers, while creating a three-dimensional model of an imaginary tower. This class takes place at The Center for Architecture.

The Naturalist Journal

Use your keen observation of the SSAC gardens to create a journal of reflections and drawings. Focus on nature’s forms and patterns, sights and sounds. Look at historic naturalists’ journals-from Beatrix Potter and Audubon, to present day journal writers.

Paper Animation

Photos to Painting

Cityscapes

Collaborate on a large-scale installation of a model city. Discuss communities and cities and the things that make them work. Keep a notebook of sketches and observations street scenes, characters and skyscrapers.  This class takes place at The Center for Architecture.

Mobiles: It Moves!

10-14 year olds:

Calligraphy

Yum Pop!

Soup cans? Nike ads? What is pop art and how does a changing pop culture change what we mean by it? Students will look at the work of Andy Warhol, Keith Haring, Wayne Thiebaud and others, and create their own pop art.

Paper, Prints, Books & Boxes

Amazing Abstraction

Learn to see in amazing new ways as you re-vision your world using line, shape and color. Each day is a different approach to exploring and discovering the principles of abstraction.

Painting & Drawing BIG!

Relief Prints: Illustrate a Story

Artistic Table Tops

Designing a River

Using the San Antonio River and the River Walk as a model-explore the design, construction and enhancement of a mid-city river project. Create a three-dimensional model of your own city-river system. Look at the plans for River North and the art, engineering, and ongoing improvements. This class takes place at The Center for Architecture.

Fiber Collage

14-18 year olds:

Cumbia Revolution

This studio-intensive class will keep you moving to the beat. Each student will learn basic, as well as non-traditional, screenprinting techniques. Your final product will be a large scale multi-media piece that incorporates screenprinting and collage. This class is for the hardcore only-if you can’t cumbia then you better start learning.

Tapestry Weaving

The Altered Book

Stained Glass

Are your kids registered for Summer Art Camp? Which classes are you looking forward to this year? Are you a former Summer Art Camp camper? Tell us about it!

School’s Out, Then What? is a post from: Art Musings

Learn about more opportunities for art adventures. Be the first to hear about special discounts in our Gallery Shop. Register for a class and feed your mind.

It all starts on the Southwest School of Art and Craft website

A Hot Week for Ceramics in San Antonio: Kurt Weiser show unveiled

This week, Ceramic Arts in San Antonio couldn’t get any hotter (pardon the pun). In case you didn’t hear, Kurt Weiser is in town, opening the last stop of his touring show here at the Southwest School of Art & Craft on Thursday, April 29. (If you are looking for a good time, come out for the opening reception from 5:30-7:30pm)

As I publish this, his weekend workshop is completely full, but we’re anticipating a packed house for his free artist talk on Friday evening (which, by the way, is open to the public- just stop by the Navarro campus at 6:30pm, April 30).

If you are not sure who Kurt Weiser is, don’t worry. Check out this video below for a quick review:

(Video can also be found here: http://www.azpbs.org/flashplayers/linkplayer.php?thevid=asuprofessors/professors_15&url=asuprofessors)

For early reviews of  the traveling exhibition, visit:

http://www.americancraftmag.org/article.php?id=1618

http://pittnews.com/article/2010/01/19/kurt-weiser-uses-ceramics-examine-eden-unusual-way

http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/10062/1039740-437.stm

Southwest School of Art & Craft Graduate takes the prize at NCC

Kurt Weiser’s visit is not the only thing that has school staff buzzing this week. We’ve already talked about the significance of student work shown at the National Ceramic Competition in San Angelo. Even so, you wouldn’t believe how proud we were when they announced one of our former certificate students, Miguel Abugattas, won first place in that prestigious competition. We’re sure you’ll be hearing a lot more about Miguel in the coming months, so be sure to check out his work so that you can say you knew of him when…

Ryan Takaba named Emerging Artist 2010 by Ceramics Monthly

As if things couldn’t get any hotter, Ryan Takaba, our ceramics studio manager, was just named one of 17 emerging artists for 2010 by CERAMICS MONTHLY. Sherman Hall, editor of Ceramics Monthly, writes:

This year, Ceramics Monthly received a record number of submissions to our Emerging Artists competition. We take that, as well as the high level of quality work submitted as a good sign that the field of studio ceramics is thriving. We are sure you will see the promise these artists bring not only to ceramics but to the world of creative endeavors as a whole.

Way to go Ryan!

Dennis Smith opens at Goldesberry Gallery with Virginia Scotchie

The end of this week brings a new show at Goldesberry Gallery in Houston featuring our very own Chair of Ceramics Dennis Smith. Dennis will not be in Houston for the opening of his show since it is set at the same time Kurt Weiser pops into the Southwest School of Art & Craft campus, but all the same it is a great opportunity to take a weekend drive to see some great pieces from a critically acclaimed local artist.

What else? Tell us!

What else is going on in the San Antonio Ceramics scene? Be sure to tell us (by way of leaving a comment) what you think of these new developments or other local art updates or events we may have missed. It’s a busy week sure to not be missed!

A Hot Week for Ceramics in San Antonio is a post from: Art Musings

Learn about more opportunities for art adventures. Be the first to hear about special discounts in our Gallery Shop. Register for a class and feed your mind.

It all starts on the Southwest School of Art and Craft website

Fiesta Arts Fair is just over 7 days away. You heard me right, siete. We’ve been working since last year to put together the best fair yet.  I could tell you the basics: that Fiesta Arts Fair is on April 17 &18 at the Southwest School of Art & Craft, tickets cost $8 at the gate, and you can find more information at fiestaartsfair.com.

But I would be remiss if I didn’t give you a basic tutorial on getting the most out of your time at Fiesta Arts Fair. Without further ado, I bring you…

9 10 ways to rock Fiesta Arts Fair

1. Bring your friends. Yes, even THAT friend.

Fiesta Arts Fair may be an art fair and shopper paradise at it’s core, but there is SO much more than that.

In fact, Fiesta Arts Fair is well know for the live music acts it draws, and the variety of sounds can’t be beat. According to school staff, they most look forward to returning acts Sisters Morales and Guy Forsythe.

Ollin is a relative newcomer to the FAF scene, but their ties to the school run deep: trumpter Vincent Valdez is the same artist who not only got his start  in our Young Artist Programs but whose work is also featured in our current exhibition. (*Editors Note: Vincent Valdez’ works will not be available during the Fiesta Arts Fair. The exhibition ends Sunday, April 11.)

Lest we not forget the reason for the season, this year La Margarita returns with it’s namesake refreshments and other food finds (staff favorite: sausage and fajita taco with lots of pico de gallo), newcomer SAweet Cupcakes joins the lineup, and the Corn Wheel brings back Fiesta staples of roasted corn and baked potatoes.

There’s something for every one of your friends and family to enjoy, even those who are typically hard to please.

Did I mention the children’s activities? No? Well stay tuned, there’s more.

2. Show up. But use public transportation to get here.

San Antonio is blessed with a vibrant public transportation system that is fully equipped to handle the Fiesta loving crowds heading in and out of the downtown area. No parking will be available at the school during the fair, so unless you enjoy the ritual hunting a parking space in a full lot, take the bus. You’ll thank us for it later.

If you’re not familiar with the area, plan your pedestrian route to the fair by using the Google Public Transportation Planner.

3. Buy your tickets ahead of time.

Yes you can buy them the day of the fair at the entrances, but there are perks for the early birds. Not only are tickets available at the Gallery Shop, H-E-B and the Fiesta Store, you’ll also save a dollar on each daily ticket you purchase when you buy your tickets in advance. Who doesn’t want to save a dollar?

4. Looking for a great find or a bargain? Shop early, Come late.

A big draw at the Fiesta Arts Fair is the shopping. But if you want first dibs on what the artists bring to sell, you better get here Saturday morning. While there are plenty of items, some are more popular than others and go fast.

If you are looking for great bargains, shop just before the artists begin packing up to go home on Sunday afternoon. Artists come from all over North America, and the less boxes they have to load into their truck and take back home, the better. But beggars can’t be choosers, so just don’t expect the most popular items to be on an artist’s list to leave behind.

6. Bring your kids. No, Really. We want you to.

Fiesta events aren’t always known for being kid friendly, but Fiesta Arts Fair is an exception to the rule. The Children’s Art Garden is an area where you and your family can go hands-on and explore different types of art.

This year projects ranging from clay to printing to embossing metal will be available, and it’s a good way to find the next Picasso in the family- or just relax and have fun. Just don’t leave your kids behind to miss out.

7. Bring cash (or just use the ATM).

While many artists may take a credit card and checks, cash is still king (an ATM is available on site).You’ll also need a few bucks for food and activities. Don’t forget, it all goes to a great cause. Of course, ‘window’ shopping, artist’s demonstrations, listening to live music and people watching is always free.

8. Leave the contraband at home with the dog.

We provide chairs to sit in, so leave those at home. Coolers are also a no-no.  We love, LOVE animals too but Fiesta Arts Fair is simply not the place for them (yes, even the cute little ones that fit into your purse). If you need a shopping buddy bring a cute little fuzzy human instead.

9. Connect with Fiesta Arts Fair goers before & after the event.

Shameless plug here, but there are so many ways to get the inside scoop on what’s best at the fair.  We’ve seen a huge rise in artists’ posting about their upcoming booths on the Fiesta Arts Fair Facebook page and on Twitter. There is a Flickr group where you can share your photos and videos, or post them on YouTube. Use the tag #fiestaartsfair to help others find it.

While you are at the fair don’t forget to check in using services like Foursquare, Gowalla, or Whrrl if you’re into that kind of thing (the school needs a new virtual mayor- is it you?). The fair is a great place to meet cool people and have a great time, but don’t leave that fun at the door. Share it! (end of shameless plug)

10. #10 is up to you.

This blogger wants to know: what are the best ways you know of to rock Fiesta Arts Fair? If you’ve been what were the best and worst parts? What are your favorites? What should a newbie do?

Tell me below.

9 (or more) Ways to Rock Fiesta Arts Fair is a post from: Art Musings

Learn about more opportunities for art adventures. Be the first to hear about special discounts in our Gallery Shop. Register for a class and feed your mind.

It all starts on the Southwest School of Art and Craft website

Sara Katherine Boyd, Openness, 2009, cone 6 porcelain, 11 x 7 x 5

It’s time again for the 18th San Angelo National Ceramic Competition hosted by the San Angelo Museum of Fine Art. Over 1,000 artists entered pieces in this nationally respected show, but only 105 pieces made the cut. Sherman Hall, Editor of Ceramics Monthly, was the primary juror.

Two of our students, as well as Dennis Smith, Chair of Ceramics, were accepted into this year’s Competition.  The students are Sara Boyd and Miguel Abugattas (Miguel is a previous Certificate student and Sara will finish her certificate  this semester).

Mary Fischer and Ryan McKerly, two of our former adjunct faculty members, were accepted into the show.

The opening reception for the competition will be at SAMFA on April 16 from 6-9 pm.

Students & Faculty make waves at the San Angelo National Ceramic Competition is a post from: Art Musings

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It all starts on the Southwest School of Art and Craft website

Internationally-recognized metalsmith and jeweler Bob Ebendorf of Greenville, North Carolina will give an artist talk on Saturday, April 10, at 1pm in the Russell Hill Rogers lecture space at the Navarro Campus. The talk, entitled Jewelry with a  Voice,  is free and open to the public.  The event is part of his 3-day workshop, Creative Problem Solving with Unusual Materials.

Planning on going? Get more information about the event and meet up with other attendees online on Facebook.

Robert Ebendorf brings Jewelry with a Voice to San Antonio is a post from: Art Musings

Learn about more opportunities for art adventures. Be the first to hear about special discounts in our Gallery Shop. Register for a class and feed your mind.

It all starts on the Southwest School of Art and Craft website