Ceramics Apprenticeship

Selected artists have access to ASLD’s three ceramic studios, which include wheels, hand-building tools, a glazing room, and a variety of kilns (electric, gas, raku).

ASLD has more than 125 artists on faculty and roughly 900 students attending courses and events each month. We also offer a myriad of offsite workshops and collaborations with other arts and community organizations. Through our in-house and partnership offerings, we provide opportunities for ceramics apprentices to meet local and regional artists, art professionals and others who may help advance their practice.

Artists receive a monthly stipend of $850 that can be used toward materials and other related costs. Housing is not provided for the apprenticeship.

This program is open to all emerging ceramic artists who are at least 21 years old. All interested artists are encouraged to apply – interest in learning is more important than demonstrated professional experience. Priority may be given to artists currently residing in Colorado.

ASLD is committed to a policy of nondiscrimination and equal opportunity for all persons regardless of race, sex, color, creed, national origin or ancestry, religion, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or ability.

ASLD consists of two buildings, both of which are accessible via ramps. The parking lot to the south of the main building has three accessible parking spaces. The main building has three levels, with a passenger elevator to each level. The ceramics studios are located on the ground floor of the main building. There is one throwing wheel that can be operated by hands rather than with a foot pedal. Studio spaces can be arranged and organized to accommodate a variety of practices and needs.

A plan for each apprenticeship is co-created by the artist and the ASLD Ceramics Manager; together they will decide what relevant skills to develop and create a plan for doing so. The apprentice is expected to work in the ASLD ceramics studios for approximately 10 hours per week for the duration of the program- their duties will be assigned by the Ceramics Manager. Extended absences may result in prorated stipends.

A $15 USD non-refundable application fee is due at the time of the application submission, paid via credit card. We would prefer that no applicants are turned away for lack of funds, so please contact John R. Hamilton at j.hamilton3@asld.org if the application fee is a barrier for you.

While this program prioritizes artists currently residing in Colorado, all artists are encouraged to apply (keeping in mind that they will be responsible for their own room & board costs). Demographic information is requested as part of the application, as this information is required by many of our funders; however, ASLD is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on identity.

Applications are reviewed by a panel comprising members of ASLD staff and of the local ceramics community. Artists will be evaluated on their work, creative practice, and plans for growth based on the apprenticeship.

As part of the evaluation process, ASLD reviews the application and committee process, adjusting based on feedback as needed and adopting new practices recommended in the arts field to ensure equity and accessibility. If you have feedback about the application and review process, please contact John R. Hamilton at j.hamilton3@asld.org