This post is about something I left out of my previous post about the SNAG Conference, because I wanted to give it some special attention. Months before attending the conference I completed an application to SNAG for the Educational Endowment Scholarship. Each year, SNAG awards 3 students and 3 emerging/mid-career artists with a scholarship to put towards educational opportunities ($2000, $1500 & $1000 in both categories). Unknown to me, the recipients are announced at the General Meeting that is held during the conference, so I was totally surprised when my name was read as the $2000 emerging/mid-career recipient! US artists, Laura Wood and Melanie Bilenker, were the jurors this year. This really pleased me because I regard their work so highly and have been so motivated to push my own work as a result of seeing theirs over the years.
I think I will be using my scholarship to attend a summer workshop at one of the great craft schools here in the US (Penland, Arrowmont, Haystack, Pilchuck & Peters Valley). This is an opportunity I would not be able to take so soon if it weren't for this scholarship. The added benefit is that in spending the money this way, it will be supporting another invaluable institution for craftspeople in the US.
Applications are open to SNAG members annually and require a statement, CV and exemplary images of work. I highly encourage people who meet the criteria to apply. I also really appreciate SNAG for giving me this wonderful opportunity and nod of encouragement.
Here are some links to check out:
SNAG Educational Endowment Scholarship
US Craft Schools
Melanie Bilenker
Laura Wood