The Journal of Australian Ceramics Vol 52 No 2 July 2013

Artist in Residence
In July, I was awarded an ICRC artist-in-residence for six weeks in January and February 2013. Staff
members at the SOA (a lecturer in ceramics and a printmaking technician) mentored me, taught me new
techniques, and provided resources to prepare for my residency. This opportunity occurred because of
my attendance at both the SOA and the international ceramics conference. A former teacher reinforced
my application with a referee's report. This mentor and the SOA have highly regarded reputations in the
international ceramics arena and this was a necessary component to the application. Their word carried
weight.
Keeping it cool
Fortunately for me, the ICRC residency coincided with Project Network, where 11 emerging artists from
around the world collaborated for six weeks to create work for an exhibition and promote the event.
The group started a Facebook page' and placed their invitation image as the timeline cover. For six
weeks, 24n, the page was buzzing with likes, comments, and shares, as photos were uploaded instantly
via mobile phones and the snappy text guided viewers through Project Network's progress. By the night
of the opening it had reached more than 4000 viewers around the world.
I actively networked in the village to encourage locals to attend and forged friendsh ips with patrons,
highlighting the exciting work being produced by emerging artists. I also wrote a blog about my
experience' as an AIR in a fairy story medieval town and my chatty style transported readers on a
virtual experience of what it was like to be an artist in action. Educational institutions and artist-based
organisations need to embrace socia l media and update their websites so their content and images are
cool, relevant and contemporary.
So, where to now, especial ly after being spoilt by a fine international ceramics centre whose country
places a much higher value on its artists and their economical and sustainable contributions to its
citizens)
I have plans to move and set up a studio with my own kiln. I will continue to actively engage with
artist organisations in Canberra and ensure ceramic artists do not become isolated in their practice.
Below: International Ceramic Research Centre, Skaelskor, Denmark; Anne Masters
100 THE JOURNAL OF AUSTRALIAN CERAMICS JULY 2013