4 bc potters

POTTERS
GUILD January 2005 Volume 41 No. 1

of BRITISH
COLUMBIA Aid to Artisans

[T Lead-Free Alliance Mexico is a two-year project directed by Aid To Artisans with an initial concentration

NEWSLETTER in the Mexican states of Michoacan and Guanajuato that builds upon proven, inexpensive methods in
traditional pottery production to ensure lead-free ceramic sales and reduce lead presence in thousands of
workshops. The project--which utilizes new lead-free glazes that work with low-fired kilns, the kind typi-
cally found in Mexico--will link artisans to an international market that seeks these lively traditional folk
ceramics but has been denied them because of the presence of lead.

The goals of ATA’s Lead-Free Alliance Mexico project, in addition to the revival of traditional Mexican
pottery, are to improve the health of traditional Mexican potters, their families, and customers, and to
increase their incomes while minimizing negative environmental impact.

One step toward these goals has been a simple innovation that has brought a significant improvement in
kiln performance. At an average elevation of 1800 metres (6000 feet) in the pottery villages, there is
insufficient natural air pressure to ensure complete combustion. By
employing inexpensive blowers at the firebox to increase the flow of
primary air for combustion, the amount of firewood per firing has
been reduced by at least 40%, the firing time has been cut almost
in half and the loss rate has been significantly reduced. These
blowers cost only about $50 CND yet they have a tremendous
impact on the life of the potter. The potters who have benefited
from this technological leap have been astounded at the improve-
ment and are most impressed by the cost savings.

Through integrated, focused, and market-driven strategies built on
a foundation of research, and AT A’s skills and experience, Lead-
Free Alliance Mexico can revitalize the market for food-safe tradi-
tional Mexican pottery and the process will serve as a model for
potters worldwide.

Lecture at ECIAD, Room 307, January 7th, 2005, 7pm.

For more information, contact Jim Meadows
jim_meadows@aidtoartisans.org

Keith Rice-Jones

Jim Meadows is a former resident of BC who ran a porcelain
studio/business in North Vancouver - Great Canadian Design Works.
Since 1986, he has worked in development projects with artisans in
Zambia, Ecuador and Mexico. He is currently back in Mexico on this
project aimed at assisting traditional potters to “get the lead out”.

Jim contacted the Guild asking if we could contribute to this worth-
while project, and at the November meeting, the Board of Directors
voted in favour of making a donation of $500. You can meet Jim and
learn more about the project by attending a slide presentation at 7pm
on Thursday January 6th at Emily Carr College.

To learn more about Aid to Artisins, check out their website:
www.aidtoartisans.org

Jinny Whitehead

Celebrating 50 Years: 1955 - 2005