April 2004 A book review by Rachelle Chinnery The Potter’s Professional Handbook: The Complete | Guide to Defining, Identifying, and Establishing Yourself in the Craft Community Braqiman = by Steve Branfman Pub. Krause Publications, WI, USA 1999 ISBN 0-87341-678-3 Although many crafts people may find it difficult to believe there isa complete ‘how-to’ book for setting up a practice, this one comes very close to hitting the mark. The subtitle clearly defines the au- thor’ goals and he systematically guides the reader out of the be- ginner stages of craft into the professional realm. Although the author, Steven Branfman, specifically states in his introduction that this is not a ‘how-to’ book, he aptly lays out solid suggestions. ‘Defining’ yourself comes about through critical essays such as “The Role of Handmade Objects in Contemporary Society.’ This chap- ter offers potters a set of guidelines defining what a potter's role and. responsibility is in western society. Branfman says here that “to be dedicated and driven towards the pursuit of craft making and.to have the attitude that your craft is integral to your life is of the utmost importance and cannot be stressed enough.(p.26)”. His approach in this book is in equal parts both philosophical and practical. ‘Identifying’ yourself is essentially claiming the title of potter within a society where the role of crafts has diminished almost beyond relevance. The author jokes about how in college his friends teased him about ‘majoring in hobbies’, and how calling yourselfan artist is often a defensive process. Branfman maintains that cultivating a professional state of mind in addition to quality work is key to identifying yourself as an artist. ‘Establishing’ is dealt with on a practical level of studio construc- tion tips and blueprints for model studios while chapter 2, “The Transition to Professional: Life After School’, discusses myriad ways of making a living as a potter while diversifying your skills set. He advocates maintaining a very broad contact with the clay commu- nity while establishing a studio. Branfman insightfully recommends teaching, tutoring, getting published and exhibiting as well as ap- proaching galleries to help develop a professional profile and prac- tice. This book came across as a potter’s version of “The Artists Way”. Itis a step-by-step guide to self assessment and goal setting through realistic visualization techniques and a Red Green brand of com- mon sense. And despite the authors contention that it is not a ‘how-to’ book, it is a very sound. professional development guide with a surprising combination of poignant essays and good studio tips. Rachelle Chinnery Gallery of BC, Canada, North America, Earth, Milky Way Galaxy Ceramics News Put your rocket boots on and fly on over to your favourite ceramic gallery for a taste of something cosmic! Keith Lehman goes over the moon to bring you a creative and engaging show of thematic teapots and serving vessels... Join us April 1st (seri- ously!) for the opening reception with spe- cial guests! Tamara Ruge, Earthling, Gallery Manager Starring ceramics by Keith Lehman Presenting functional and sculptural ceramics with visuals by Cody Chancellor. Follow the comic adventures of Captain Green Tea steeping across the galaxy in his rocketship tea pot delivering tea and mayhem... Playing | [st to May the +th be with you. J April Gallery of BC Ceramics 1359 Cartwright Otreet Granvill 6 C Potters Guild of British Columbia Newsletter