Welcome to Apprenticeship at artisanat!

Hi! My name is Maia and if you’re reading this, I bet the phrase “work, not jobs” piqued your interest. 
Mine, too. That’s how I ended up here…

This is what I do for work—I produce “Portrait Vessels.” The lids are made from original carvings by local artists. I use the carvings to make plaster molds.

Once that step is done, the real fun begins! The clay is poured and when it has dried to the point where I can begin working with it, I clean up any imperfections. After that, pieces continue to dry until they are ready for the first (bisque) firing. Following the bisque firing, I choose and apply the glazes and the pieces are fired again.

I find joy and fulfillment in producing these beautiful and useful, handcrafted pieces. Moreover, I have developed a skill that I can pass on to others which contributes to the community in a meaningful and measurable way. artisanat apprenticeships make these dreams and ideals a reality.

Here’s what you can expect from your apprenticeship:

• This program is a paid, six-month apprenticeship, during which time you will commit to working in the studio/shop three consecutive days.
• You will develop the skills needed for creating Portrait Vessel lids and bowls, including creating plaster casts, pouring molds, working with clay tools, firing, glazing and marketing skills.
• You will produce pieces for the Portrait Vessel product line.
• At the end of your apprenticeship, you will be encouraged to set up a studio of your own and continue the artisanat mission by training your own apprentices.

Benefit to the community:

• Becomes a destination for locally-made products
• Provides work for members of the community
• Helps enliven the local economy
• Provides the community with beautiful and useful, hand-crafted products