COLUMBIA

Mia Muse Ceramics Workshop, Skopelos 2y sizy Birsiein

Follow your bliss and the rest will follow.
—Joseph Campbell

For better or worse, this quote has been my mantra. I experienced its
essence last September while offering Mia Muse, a two-week figurative
ceramics workshop on Skopelos, the stunning Greek island where
Mamma Mia was filmed. How truly blissful to return to the place
I considered my spiritual homeland 30 years ago, as the artist and
teacher I have since become.

‘The journey to Skopelos began with an optional pre-tour to Athens,
where we visited the stunning ancient sites of the Acropolis and Delphi,
as well as the much-awaited New Acropolis Museum, churches, flea
markets, the Plaka and of course, shopping at Melissanos’, the Poet-
Sandal maker!

Although it was September and still hot, Zeus greeted us with a
freak electrical storm, both coming and going to Skopelos—quite
appropriate for the nine muses who were to be my students! That
first morning, I was awakened by a dramatic sunrise blazing through
my balcony windows. In fact, every morning featured a differently
spectacular sunrise view, looking upon the tile and slate rooftops of
Skopelos town, the harbour, olive groves and Sporades islands of the
turquoise Aegean.

Suzy and her students at work.

The Skopelos Art Foundation (Skopart) is run by two visionary
American women (mother and daughter) who facilitate international
workshops. Skopart is located on the hilltop overlooking the town, a
short walk from our charming accommodation. The Centre is a large
contemporary facility offering printmaking, photography, painting
and ceramic workshops and residencies. The ceramics studio is a
gorgeous place to work; a large covered space opening onto views of
Aegean beaches and monasteries.

Our days began with a delicious breakfast provided by Jill and Gloria,
followed by five hours of structured studio time, with the option of
using the studio 24/7. In the short two weeks we were there, time

Continued on Page 10, Time slowed down

Potters Guild of BC Newsletter - March 2010

Awakening to a Skopelos sunrise.

KSA-Alumni

a ris \Pr

Chris moved from Vancouver to attend Kootenay
School of the Arts (KSA) in Nelson where he graduated
in 2006. Chris is currently working as an assistant to
renowned ceramist Betty Woodman in New York.

KSA offers a 2-year diploma in Art Craft & Design with
a Major in Clay. The program focuses on hands-on
training with an emphasis on studio practice and is
transferable.

APPLY NOW for 1st year or direct entry into 2nd year.
Applications accepted for September or January entry.

1.877.552.2821 | selkirk.ca/ksa