Openng Reception: Celebration of Clay 2024: 50 Years of NMPCA

Celebration of Clay 2024: 50 Years of NMPCA
opening reception: Saturday, October 5, 4-7 pm
on view: October 5–November 16, 2024

In 1974, a group of potters, who had been meeting regularly in Albuquerque, formed the “New Mexico Potters’ Association.” “New Mexico Potters and Clay Artists” was adopted in 2004 to represent the members’ wide range of expression. New Mexico’s potters and clay artists joined from the four directions. Camaraderie has evolved through annual meetings and member shows, workshops at Ghost Ranch, Clay Olympics with NM Clay, field trips, backyard raku firings, and juried shows at the Albuquerque Sunport. Bill Armstrong Education Grants have been awarded annually since 2002. The Slip Trail blog actively records happenings. Over five decades, volunteers banding together have maintained a steadfast presence for the clay arts in New Mexico. We are celebrating ourselves, a distinctive and diverse clay community, with our 50th anniversary show!

Every year this exhibition allows members to select their own best work, and features awards to highlight exceptional works, selected by a team of jurors. This year’s jurors include: James Marshall, Betsy Williams, and Jules Epstein, Gallery Director of Taos Ceramics Center. They will be selecting pieces for Best in Show Award of $250, the UNM Arita Porcelain Award for Beauty, Quality and Functionality of $100, the Coyote Clay Color award for $100 and three Merit Awards of $100 each.

Everyone has the opportunity to experience the exhibition through our online People’s Choice Award site, celebrationofclay.com. Here you can view the exhibition pieces and vote for your favorite!

Go to celebrationofclay.com between October 5 and November 16, 2024 and cast your vote! Juried awards will be announced at the reception; the People’s Choice Award will be announced by November 23, 2024 online at celebrationofclay.com.