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Opening Reception February 8, 6-9 PM • Talk by Richard Shaw @ 7 PM
On view January 11—April 19

New Acquisitions from Julianne and David Armstrong, celebrating a donation of extraordinary works to the American Museum of Ceramic Art from the Armstrongs, includes rarely-seen works by some of North America’s leading ceramic artists, among them notable groupings of work from faculty and graduates from Alfred University (Andrea Gill, Ted Randall, Victor Babu, Don Reitz, Richard Shaw, Josh DeWeese, Karen Karnes, Peter Pincus, and more) and from Otis College of Art and Design (including Peter Voulkos, Harrison McIntosh, Porntip Sangvanich, Ralph Bacerra, John Mason, and Ricky Maldonado).

Works from Maldonado, Bacerra, and Rose Cabat exemplify the flashy, colorful influences of Los Angeles. Trompe-l’œil work from Shaw, Sylvia Hyman, David Furman and Victor Spinski are definitive examples of the North American take on this century’s old technique. Sculptural and figurative works from a host of other luminaries, including Voulkos, Richard Devore, Peter Callas, Patti Warashina, Joe Bova, Betty Davenport Ford, Margaret Keelan, Gina Lawson-Egan, Janis Mars-Wunderlich, Glenn Takai, MacIntosh, Jens Morrison, and Rimas VisGirda round out this remarkable selection. Taken together, it is an impressive representation of ceramic artistic production in North America over the last century, and the Armstrongs’ preserving and sharing these artistic traditions with the public.

Education programs are made possible in part by the Ruth and Joseph C. Reed Foundation for the Arts.

Learn More

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More at AMOCA

Julie Green: Flown Blue Through February 23	AMOCA Collects! Through March 29
Chinese Bird Banquet Through June 30	Artists of Mettlach Through July 31
Joanne Hayakawa: A Wing and a Prayer II Through April 19

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Valentine's Teaser Lessons February 14 is Valentine's Day - come celebrate at the AMOCA Ceramics Studio with four special teaser lessons! Choose from heart shaped boxes or rattles, or valentine's themed mugs. $45, two hours, no prior experience needed.	More Studio News Check out the February studio newsletter for upcoming workshops and demonstrations, youth classes, clay camp discounts, party information, and more!
Register	Learn more

Want more news about the AMOCA Ceramics Studio? Update your subscription preferences to receive periodic emails about opportunities at the studio.

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Shop

Art from the Heart Step into the AMOCA store this February and check out our hand picked selection of items for that special someone in your life. Enjoy 15% off until Valentine's day - don't miss out on getting your loved ones that work of art that comes from the heart! *In store only, while supplies last

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Engage

Family Day February 15 • 1 hour sessions • 12–3PM Quality family time! Enjoy a tour and youngester-friendly hands-on clay experiences. Admission is $5.00 for a family of four and $2.00 for each additional family member. To reserve your spot, please call the museum at (909) 865-3146 or email education@amoca.org. Reserve space for every member of your party as our studio has a maximum capacity. A confirmation email will be provided to all registered participants in advance of the event with final details. Learn More

Southern California High School Ceramics Exhibition Call for Entries Closes February 15 Last year's exhibition brought together 80 finalists from over 19 schools. Participation is a great resume builder and a wonderful experience for artists and families alike! Apply Online

Lunch & Lecture: Sam Lopez February 20 • 1–2 PM • Free with Admission Born and raised on a small dairy farm in Mira Loma, Lopez grew up working between his dad’s leather workshop and his grandfather’s wood workshop. Working in these spaces established a love for making objects by hand, and making objects of utility continues to be his primary approach when entering his studio. Sam holds an MFA from San Diego State University and teaches at local community colleges and from his home studio. Free with Admission. Feel free to bring your lunch. RSVP on Facebook

 

class tours	membership	internships
DOCENT-LED tours of five exhibitions tailored to your class. Hands-on clay sessions; funding available. Learn More.	BECOME A MEMBER - the feel-good way to support clay and the arts in the Pomona Valley! Enjoy great benefits, including exclusive tours, shopping days, and more.	NOW AVAILABLE Join the AMOCA team, get work experience, and become part of the ceramic tradition!

Opening Reception January 11, 6-9 PM • Artist Talk @ 7 PM
On view January 11—April 19 • Members Preview 12-5 PM on Friday, January 10

Since 2016, AMOCA has partnered with the Ruth Chandler Williamson Gallery at Scripps College to produce coordinated exhibitions alongside the Scripps College Ceramic Annual. This Saturday, January 11, the curator of this year's annual, Joanne Hayakawa, premieres her new work A Wing and a Prayer II at AMOCA alongside a series of two-dimensional works. 

Hayakawa explores diametrically opposed pairs in her work. For example, vulnerability is paired with strength, extraordinary is presented alongside mundane, and self-indulgent technology is contrasted with the human condition. Body parts -– hearts, brains, spines -– are juxtaposed with their botanical counterparts — roses and their thorn encrusted branches and cacti and their rows of spines.

Joanne Hayakawa holds a BFA from the University of California, Santa Barbara, and an MFA from the University of Washington.  Her work can be found at Scripps College, Claremont, the Museum of Contemporary Art, San Diego, and the Nora Eccles Harrison Museum of Art, Utah State University.

Learn More

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Opening Reception January 25, 6–9 PM • On view January 25–April 5

For the 76th Annual,  Hayakawa has gathered artists whose work engages with and offers a variety of perspectives on the environment through the lens of duality. “Duality,” she writes, “Provides a natural tension with questions, definitions and position(s). We can understand duality to mean opposites, …diversity that is generalized or confrontational or not, parallel paths that have not recognized each other….  I have chosen artists with diverse approaches to literal and figurative environmental perspectives who seem to be wending their way forward through their choices.  Ultimately, they are defining or redefining their vision through exploration of two (or more) sides.”

Learn More

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More at AMOCA

Julie Green: Flown Blue Through February 23	AMOCA Collects! Through March 29
Chinese Bird Banquet Through June 30	Artists of Mettlach Through July 31

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Last chance for winter classes! Through February 23 Last call for winter classes! There are still a few spots left for hand building, wheel throwing, and sculpture. Classes start this week! Register	2 days left to register: Sandy Simon & Robert Brady Regsitration Deadline January 9 A demonstration featuring Robert and Sandy working side by side throwing on the wheel, talking and answering questions while they work. January 18-19 • $200 Register

Want more news about the AMOCA Ceramics Studio? Update your subscription preferences to receive periodic emails about opportunities at the studio.

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Shop

New Totes! Brand new for 2020 - the first in a series of limited-run tote bags. While they last - $17 Shop

New Shirts! A full run of sizes featuring cuts for both men and women in gray heather. Featuring original artwork by our very own Nathan Stanfield. Shop

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Engage

 

class tours	membership	internships
DOCENT-LED tours of five exhibitions tailored to your class. Hands-on clay sessions; funding available. Learn More.	BECOME A MEMBER - the feel-good way to support clay and the arts in the Pomona Valley! Enjoy great benefits, including exclusive tours, shopping days, and more.	NOW AVAILABLE Join the AMOCA team, get work experience, and become part of the ceramic tradition!

In this issue: 20 new exhibition videos, working in solidarity, complimentary virtual and in-person tours, & more...

We're Reopening!

After more than three months of closure as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, we are delighted to announce that we are reopening!  Read on for exciting new developments, and we look forward to seeing you soon.

Ricky Maldonado, "Vertigo IV," 2008. Terracotta and glazes. Photo from New Acquisitions: Julianne and David Armstrong.

AMOCA Members & Pomona Residents

Tickets now available for the month of July

AMOCA members and residents of the City of Pomona can reserve complimentary tickets online. As a thank-you to our community, 500 complimentary tickets will be available to residents of Pomona during the month of July. Tickets are required for admission and must be reserved online at least one day in advance.

Not a member? Become one today and come visit us in July!

Reserve Tickets

Public Reopening

Tickets will be available in July for August Admission

We will welcome the general public back to the museum the week of August 3. Details on how to reserve advance tickets will be sent via email next month and available at AMOCA.org in a few weeks.

Complimentary tickets are required for admission and must be reserved online a day in advance.

 Wanxin Zhang, "What's Up II," 2011. High-fired paper clay with underglazes and glazes. Photo from Making In Between: Contemporary Chinese American Ceramics.

Complimentary Private Members Tours

In-Person or Virtual!

AMOCA members are invited to schedule in-person or virtual private tours of our current exhibitions. These small-group experiences with a staff member or docent are a remarkable way to experience the exhibits on view.

As a thank-you for your continued support, you are invited to enjoy these special tours free of charge. On behalf of everyone at AMOCA, we are grateful for your support and we look forward to seeing you soon!
 

Learn More

Memberships & Perks

Become a member (or gift a membership to a friend!) and enjoy the perks, including member previews in July and complimentary virtual and in-person tours. Your support helps us champion the art, history, creation, and technology of ceramics!

Become a Member

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Working in Solidarity

Dear AMOCA Community,

The events of the past weeks have been heartbreaking and devastating to our nation. We stand with our community in demanding justice for George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, and countless others.

Many of you responded to my note online and to our posts on social media. Thank you for sharing how important this issue is to you. It is important to me, and important to everyone at AMOCA.

We continue to work with our board, staff, volunteers, and community to be of service, and to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion. I look forward to keeping you informed in the coming months on our efforts in these areas, and know you will continue to hold us accountable.

Together, we are stronger.

Beth Ann Gerstein
Executive Director
 

Learn More

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Exhibitions Online @ AMOCA

New Acquisitions: Julianne and David Armstrong

Digital Exhibition Part 1: Twenty High-Resolution Videos, Narration, & more

Enjoy twenty brand new short videos highlighting works from the New Acquisitions: Julianne and David Armstrong exhibition. See the work closer than ever before in stunning 4K resolution, and enjoy narration and commentary from Nathan Stanfield (Exhibitions) and Ashley Rowley (Education and Outreach).

Learn More

Click here to see all of the AMOCA's Online Exhibitions.

With social distancing requirements, the Ceramics Studio has shifted its offerings by expanding the number of private and semi-private studio spaces. Until further notice – studio memberships, on-site classes, and workshops have been canceled or postponed. We hope to offer a limited number of digital classes beginning this fall. To reserve a kiln in the Ceramics Studio or purchase supplies (for curbside pick up or local delivery) call 909-622-0464 or email studio@amoca.org.

Opening Reception March 14, 6-9 PM
Talks by Jennifer Datchuk and Stephanie H. Shih @ 7 PM
On view March 14-August 23

Opens this Saturday! Featuring works by Jennifer Ling Datchuk, Sin-ying Ho, Beth Lo, Cathy Lu, Stephanie H. Shih, and Wanxin Zhang.

"The United States of America is frequently described as a ''nation of immigrants,'' and the reasons for immigration are diverse - the search for better economic opportunities, the escape from persecution and pursuit of sanctuary, or to reunite with family or loved ones.

Today, almost 90 million immigrants and individuals with Chinese heritage live in the United States. ''Making In Between: Contemporary Chinese American Ceramics'' highlights the work of six, first- and second-generation Chinese-American ceramic artists. The works of these artists share themes of cultural heritage, identity, language, politics, migration, and displacement. While their works are unmistakably individual, they share a rich heritage shaped by their American and Chinese experiences."

The exhibition catalog, made possible through a generous grant from the Pasadena Art Alliance, will be available for purchase at the exhibition opening.

Education programs are made possible in part by the Ruth and Joseph C. Reed Foundation for the Arts.

Learn More

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More at AMOCA

New Acquisitions: Julianne and David Armstrong Through June 21	AMOCA Collects! Through March 29
Chinese Bird Banquet Through June 30	Artists of Mettlach Through July 31
Joanne Hayakawa: A Wing and a Prayer II Through April 19

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Kiln Firing On March 14, stop by the AMOCA Ceramics Studio as we fire the atmospheric kilns. Take a teaser class, work late, bring some snacks, enjoy refreshments and the opening of Making in Between: Contemporary Chinese American Ceramics in the museum.	Lunch and Lecture: Aida Lugo Join us on March 20 at 1 PM for lunch and lecture with Aida Lugo. Lugo is an artist-in-residence at the dA Center for the Arts in Pomona and a teaching artist at AMOCA.
Teaser Lesson	Learn more

On April 4-5, swing by the AMOCA Ceramics Studio for a two day sale featuring works by Ceramics Studio members at all price points! Gifts, decorative works, and that perfect item for Mothers Day (May 10)!

Renowned artist Tom Coleman (one of his works is currently on display in AMOCA Collects!) from Henderson, Nevada, will be joining us for a demonstration on April 4 to kick off the sale. Ceramics Studio members are invited to enjoy this demonstration at no cost thanks to a generous gift from founder and board member David Armstrong.

Learn More

Register & Demo Info

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Shop

Swing into Spring!

Spring is nearby and with flowers blooming soon, why not have your own! For the month of March, get 15% off a curated selection of planters and vases.

*In store only, while supplies last

Support AMOCA Now and Protect Its Future

Dear Emily,

Along with many peer museums, the American Museum of Ceramic Art has temporarily closed its doors to protect members, visitors, patrons, staff, and volunteers by supporting the efforts of health professionals to contain Covid-19.

As devastating as this crisis is, we are determined to weather the storm. I am so grateful to the dedicated staff here, who have quickly pivoted to provide digital experiences and to deliver clay orders to local artists. I'm also thankful for our Board of Directors, who have come together to help see AMOCA through this difficult time.

To be frank, the financial threat to AMOCA is real, and to ensure its future, we need your help. I hope you will consider making a contribution to help us address the budget realities of the pandemic.

In the midst of this crisis, art continues to bring us together and offers a reminder of what it means to be human. In that spirit, I’m proud to present AMOCA’s first digital exhibition members experience - see below for more details from our talented colleagues.

During this extraordinary time, this #MuseumAtHome experience will be available to the general public for free.

While we are reducing expenses in every way possible in coming months, including my own decision to reduce my salary during this time, AMOCA needs your assistance now to help us to ensure a robust presence for the ceramic arts for future generations.

I am always impressed by and grateful for your generosity, especially at this moment.

With profound gratitude,

Beth Ann Gerstein
Executive Director

 

Give Today

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What happens when you can't come see our exhibitions? We bring our exhibitions to you! Now available online from our newest exhibition, Making in Between: Contemporary Chinese American Ceramics:

• Video Walkthrough
• Virtual Tour
• Excerpts from the exhibition catalog
• High resolution photos of the works in the exhibition

The resources can be accessed from a computer, tablet, or phone, and will be available for free during the shutdown.

Visit the Digital Exhibition

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Is a gift not possible right now? Trust me, we get it. Here are a few other ways you can help:

• Keep in touch! We’ve all been tossed into this strange new world together; let’s hang out “virtually.” We’ll be active on Instagram and Facebook, and you can catch the staff may going “live.”
• Support AMOCA (and ceramic artists!) by shopping online.
• Sign a friend up for our newsletter.
• Buy a gift certificate for an upcoming class or workshop in our ceramics studio.
• Forward this to your friends and family - help us share the love of clay!

Become a Member

Gift a Membership

Dear Emily,

During #GivingTuesdayNow, friends like you raised $2,000 to support ceramic artists. This unlocked $2,000 in matching funds for a total of $4,000!

You can still make a gift - 100% of each gift to this fund goes to participating ceramic artists.

Artists nominated yesterday have already received notification of their nomination. If you know of an artist that should be nominated, you can nominate them using the link below.

With gratitude,

Paul Roach
Director of Advancement and Communications

Digital Ceramic Arts Fund

A fund dedicated to supporting ceramic artists working on digital projects, from studio visits to videos and from digital works of art to online portfolios, and more. 100% of every gift goes to participating artists!

Give Now

Nominate an Artist

Nominate your favorite ceramic artist or even yourself! Nominees selected will receive an invitation to participate, and AMOCA will highlight their project in emails, on social media channels, and on our website.

Learn More

Memberships & Perks

Become a member (or gift a membership to a friend!), enjoy the perks, and support a non-profit organization dedicated to championing the art, history, creation, and technology of ceramics.

Learn More

How has the pandemic changed tours for students and educators?

During the 2019-2020 school year, over 1,900 students and educators participated in AMOCA's educational tours program. When the pandemic put an end to in-person visits, the program needed to be reimagined. Click the video below to learn more (with guest appearance by educator and artist Mike Flower!).

When you make a gift to support AMOCA's Education Programs today, December 1, every donation will be matched by a member of AMOCA's Board of Directors - up to $1,000! Help us keep tours available for students and educators!

The Impact of Your Gift:

• $35 provides a Virtual Tour for a class of students from a Title 1 School
• $45 provides a hands-on clay lesson for a class of students from a Title 1 School
• $75 funds a workshop for members of the Teen Council with a professional artist
• $100 funds the costs of firing artwork by the Teen Council
• $250 covers clay for a year for the Teen Council
• $500 makes it possible to provide an entire year of Teen Council for one student.

Give Now

Thank you for your support! If you feel so moved, you can share this video with friends and family on Facebook, Instagram, or YouTube.

With gratitude,

Paul Roach
Director, Advancement and Communications
proach@amoca.org
(909) 865-3146

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2020: Reinventing AMOCA's Education Programs

In May, the annual Southern California High School Ceramics Exhibition became AMOCA’s first digital-only exhibition, featuring 74 works from over 27 high schools in Southern California. Staff hosted AMOCA’s first ever online awards ceremony and reception for the exhibition, reaching over 3,900 individuals.

In July, digital Family Days were launched, providing young children with vital access to the arts from the comfort of their own home. Book readings, family discussion questions, and at-home clay recipes and projects have helped support parents and families through this unprecedented time.

In August, AMOCA was among the first museums in Southern California to make digital tours available to teachers and students. Since then, over 2,291 educators and students from across the country have since participated - more than twice as many as participated in the entirety of last year!

In November, Teen Council was relaunched with a new digital curriculum, increasing access for High School students interested in pursuing their passion for the arts.

As we think about what we are grateful for this year, we celebrate the past ten months of transformation and innovation (with your support!). This Giving Tuesday, I hope you will join me in making a gift to continue these exceptional efforts.

Give your gift early, and it will be counted and matched as part of the Giving Tuesday challenge!

Give Now

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Give the gift of membership!

Give the gift of membership and share your love of ceramics! Your support helps us champion the art, history, creation, and technology of ceramics.

Gift a Membership

Dear Emily,

During the COVID-19 pandemic, we have all discovered virtual ways to keep our passion for the ceramic arts alive and vital - digital exhibitions, clay deliveries, online award ceremonies, and more online resources than anyone could possibly explore.

Today, as part of #GivingTuesdayNow, I am pleased to announce the Digital Ceramic Arts Fund at AMOCA, a special initiative to support artists creating our remarkable digital content. And there is an incentive:  All gifts made today will be matched dollar for dollar up to $2,000.

With the new funding, AMOCA's resources will be marshalled to produce and distribute new projects for all of us to enjoy. 

Digital Ceramic Arts Fund

A fund dedicated to supporting ceramic artists working on digital projects, from studio visits to videos and from digital works of art to online portfolios, and more.

Make a Gift

Give now and double your impact! Remember that as part of #GivingTuesdayNow, every dollar given to the Digital Ceramic Arts Fund before midnight will be matched dollar for dollar up to $2,000. And 100% of every gift goes to participating artists.

Give Now

Nominate an Artist

Nominate your favorite ceramic artist or even yourself! Nominees selected will receive an invitation to participate, and AMOCA will highlight their project in emails, on social media channels, and on our website.

Learn More

Support and Share #GivingTuesdayNow

Check out and share some other #GivingTuesdayNow campaigns from organizations in our communities:

• CERF+ The Artist's Safety Net
• Donate a Mug to the NCECA GivingTuesdayNow Sale
• The Compassion Fund at Pomona Community Foundation

Thank you for supporting the ceramic arts in the many ways you do. Your advocacy and generosity help to ensure that the ceramic arts will be available for future generations to enjoy.

With gratitude,

Beth Ann Gerstein
Executive Director

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What's Online @ AMOCA

Southern California High School Ceramics Exhibition 2020

Digital Exhibition and Awards Ceremony hosted by Beth Ann Gerstein

An annual juried show featuring 74 finalists from 27 Southern California High Schools, striving to inspire and recognize young artists achieving excellence in their own creative endeavors.

View all the works online and vote for the Visitors Choice Award!

Learn More

Mother's Day Sale

Take 20% off items with promo code mom when you checkout!

A curated selectin of 25 jewelry boxes, vases, earrings, and necklaces for the mother in your lfe. All unique and handmade. For a limited time, enjoy 20% off this selection of items. 50% of each sale goes directly to the artist.

Learn More

Memberships & Perks

Become a member (or gift a membership to a friend!), enjoy the perks, and support a non-profit organization dedicated to championing the art, history, creation, and technology of ceramics.

Learn More

 

National Clay: Virtual Open Studio and Sale

Saturday and Sunday, November 14–15 • 9 AM–4 PM

Call for artists!

Participate in a new event this fall - a "live" virtual shopping event where collectors and enthusiasts can “visit” artists’ studios, websites, and stores from one central online location.

Apply online (for free!) to participate as an artist, or refer a friend!

• No application fee and AMOCA does not take a commission on sales.
• Rolling jury process will be held on October 22 and October 29.
• Participation fees range from $150 – $250.
• The event will be promoted on AMOCA’s website, social media, e-news platforms.
• All artists will be provided with digital marketing tools to promote their participation in the event.

Learn More

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Members Virtual Tour with Beth Ann Gerstein

Tuesday, October 20 • 5 PM

AMOCA's Executive Director Beth Ann Gerstein will lead a live gallery talk and tour of the exhibition Making in Between: Contemporary Chinese American Ceramics. This members exclusive event will be live and take place on Zoom. Participants will be able to interact with Beth Ann, with time at the end of questions.

Become a member now at any level and get an invitation to the gallery talk, plus a whole year of exclusive events and opportunities!

Want to check your membership status, or have any other membership questions that we can help you with? Email member services (membership@amoca.org) or call us  (909) 865-3146 (Monday-Thursday, 10 AM - 3 PM).
 

Learn More

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What's New on Social Media

Follow us for new content every day of the week!

Just because we're closed doesn't mean our mission is on pause! Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube for new content every day of the week.

This week on social media (pictured left to right, top to bottom):

1. Membership Mondays: Jennifer Datchuk, Basic Bitch, 2017. Porcelain and decals.
2. Internship Tuesdays: Nicki Green in her studio, Graham Holoch / KQED, 2016
3. Collection Wednesdays: Patti Warashina, Kimchee Chaos, 2013. Painted ceramic. Gift of the Artist.
4. Throwback Thursdays: Peter Voulkos: Echoes of The Japanese Aesthetic.
5. Take 5 Fridays: Amy Santoferraro, texTILES: Egg Flower Soup, 2016.
6. Exhibition Saturdays: Porntip Sangvanich, Teapot - Red and Black, 2004. Glazed porcelain.

 

Facebook

Instagram

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Virtual Tours for Educators and Students

Over 1,100 students already served!

Docent-led (synchronous) and self-led (asynchronous) virtual tours are now available for educators and students grades 3-12 and students and professors studying at the college and university level. Tours scheduling is fully automated and can be completed online at the educators leisure.

Educators can also arrange for tours over the phone or email by contacting Education Manager Ashley Rowley at education@amoca.org.

Learn More

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Alyson's Adventures

2020 Getty Marrow Undergraduate Intern

Follow Alyson's journey at AMOCA with her most recent blog posts:

• Nancy Selvin: The Abstraction of Art History
• New Acquisitions: Trompe l'Oeil
• Kim Tucker’s “Primal Beings, Ghosts, and Human Dummies”
• Blue Boys and Farmers: Howard Kottler’s Queer Plates

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Smithsonian Honors Ceramic Artist Patti Warashina

October 13 • 5 PM Pacific Time

Pictured: Patti Warashina, "Waterboy," 1991. Installation detail from "AMOCA Collects! 2019."

Tonight! RSVP below for this free virtual event. Smithsonian Secretary Lonnie G. Bunch III will present the Smithsonian Visionary Award to 2020 Visionary Artist Patti Warashina, and pay tribute to her artistic accomplishments.

RSVP

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Memberships & Perks

Become a member (or gift a membership to a friend!) and enjoy the perks, including member previews in July and complimentary virtual and in-person tours. Your support helps us champion the art, history, creation, and technology of ceramics!

Become a Member

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Exhibitions Online @ AMOCA

New Acquisitions: Julianne and David Armstrong

Digital Exhibition Part 2: Twenty High-Resolution Videos, Narration, & more

Enjoy twenty-two brand new short videos highlighting works from the New Acquisitions: Julianne and David Armstrong exhibition. See the work closer than ever before in stunning 4K resolution, and enjoy narration and commentary from Nathan Stanfield (Exhibitions) and Ashley Rowley (Education and Outreach).

Learn More

Click here to see all of the AMOCA''s Online Exhibitions.

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With social distancing requirements, the Ceramics Studio has shifted its offerings by expanding the number of private and semi-private studio spaces. Until further notice - studio memberships, on-site classes, and workshops have been canceled or postponed. We hope to offer a limited number of digital classes beginning this fall. To reserve a kiln in the Ceramics Studio or purchase supplies (for curbside pick up or local delivery) call 909-622-0464 or email studio@amoca.org.

The Impact of Teen Council - A Home Away From Home

Each year, AMOCA welcomes a cohort of high school students to the museum to learn, study, and grow. Over the past three months, this vital mentoring program has been reinvented as a digital experience. Click the video below to learn more about the Teen Council (with guest appearance by educator and artist Jeff Picou!).

Donors like you helped us meet the challenge match of $1,000, and inspired our generous donor to extend the match to $2,000! When you make a gift to support AMOCA's Education Programs today, December 1, every donation will be matched by a member of AMOCA's Board of Directors. Help us keep the Teen Council available for students and educators!

The Impact of Your Gift:

• $35 provides a Virtual Tour for a class of students from a Title 1 School
• $45 provides a hands-on clay lesson for a class of students from a Title 1 School
• $75 funds a workshop for members of the Teen Council with a professional artist
• $100 funds the costs of firing artwork by the Teen Council
• $250 covers clay for a year for the Teen Council
• $500 makes it possible to provide an entire year of Teen Council for one student.

Give Now

Thank you for your support! 

With gratitude,

Paul Roach
Director, Advancement and Communications
proach@amoca.org

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2020: Reinventing AMOCA's Education Programs

In May, the annual Southern California High School Ceramics Exhibition became AMOCA’s first digital-only exhibition, featuring 74 works from over 27 high schools in Southern California. Staff hosted AMOCA’s first ever online awards ceremony and reception for the exhibition, reaching over 3,900 individuals.

In July, digital Family Days were launched, providing young children with vital access to the arts from the comfort of their own home. Book readings, family discussion questions, and at-home clay recipes and projects have helped support parents and families through this unprecedented time.

In August, AMOCA was among the first museums in Southern California to make digital tours available to teachers and students. Since then, over 2,291 educators and students from across the country have since participated - more than twice as many as participated in the entirety of last year!

In November, Teen Council was relaunched with a new digital curriculum, increasing access for High School students interested in pursuing their passion for the arts.

As we think about what we are grateful for this year, we celebrate the past ten months of transformation and innovation (with your support!). This Giving Tuesday, I hope you will join me in making a gift to continue these exceptional efforts.

Give your gift early, and it will be counted and matched as part of the Giving Tuesday challenge!

Give Now

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Give the gift of membership!

Give the gift of membership and share your love of ceramics! Your support helps us champion the art, history, creation, and technology of ceramics.

Gift a Membership

 

In Conversation: Stephanie H. Shih + Mei Lum

Wednesday, August 26 • 5 PM Pacific/8 PM Eastern

RSVP

Join us for a special online engagement with New York-based ceramic artist Stephanie H. Shih and Mei Lum, 5th generation owner of New-York based Wing on Wo and the founder and director of The W.O.W. Project. Shih and Lum converse on a wide-range of topics, discussing art, politics, community, culture, and legacy. Both will be present to answer questions.

Stephanie H. Shih

Stephanie H. Shih is a Taiwanese American artist exploring concepts of home, not just as a physical place, but also as cultural, generational, and emotional spaces we inhabit. Her work is currently on view at the American Museum of Ceramic Art (Pomona, CA), and has been shown at Wieden+Kennedy (Portland, OR), and Hashimoto Contemporary (San Francisco, CA) and featured by NPR, Los Angeles Times, Vogue, The New York Times, and The New Yorker. She lives in Brooklyn, New York.

 

Mei Lum

Mei Lum is the 5th-generation owner of Wing on Wo & Co, the founder and director of the The W.O.W. Project, and one of the leading voices for placekeeping in New York’s Chinatown. In 2017, Lum was recognized as an emerging voice in the Asian and Pacific American community by NBC Asian America. She received the 2019 Community Builder Award from OCA Asian Pacific American Advocates and the Rubinger Community Fellowship from the Local Initiatives Support Corporation. It was recently announced that Lum has been awarded a Civic Practice Partnership Artist in Residence at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City.

Visit the website using the link below to RSVP, see videos, and connect with the speakers on social media.

Learn More

This engagement made possible by the AMOCA community through the Digital Ceramic Arts Fund.

Memberships & Perks

Become a member (or gift a membership to a friend!) and enjoy the perks, including member previews in July and complimentary virtual and in-person tours. Your support helps us champion the art, history, creation, and technology of ceramics!

Become a Member

In this issue: Auntie Yang's Great Soybean Picnic, Food Sculpting with Aida Lugo, Meet Alyson Brandes, Virtual Private Tours, & more...

We're Not Reopening...Yet!

Earlier this month, we were notified that indoor museums, including AMOCA, had to close to the public again to support efforts to manage the pandemic. While we're disappointed not to be able to welcome you back yet, your safety and the safety of our staff is our top priority. You'll be the first to know when we're able to open again! In the meantime, we'll continue to make sure that the ceramic arts are at your fingertips with our virtual programs.

 

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Virtual Family Day

Book reading and hands-on activities for the whole family

Ashley Rowley, Education Manager, with "Auntie Yang's Great Soybean Picnic."

Even though we can't share a visit to AMOCA, our families can still come together around art! Join us this Saturday, August 1, for our first virtual Family Day. Inspired by the exhibit Making in Between: Contemporary Chinese American Ceramics, we're reading the book Auntie Yang's Great Soybean Picnic (illustrated by Beth Lo, an artist featured in the exhibition).

• August 1, 12:00 PM: Ashley Rowley, AMOCA's Education Manager, reads the book aloud. A conversation worksheet for families is available on the website.
• August 1, 12:15 PM: Teaching artist for sculpture Aida Lugo leads Sculpting Food, a hands-on activity for kids of all ages. A simple recipe for air-dry clay, which can be prepared in advance, is available on the website.

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Meet Alyson Brandes

2020 Getty Marrow Undergraduate Intern

Ruby Neri, "Untitled (Dancing Women)," 2018. Ceramic with glaze, 34.5 x 42 x 21 inches. (Jeff McLane / David Kordansky Gallery)

Join us in welcoming Alyson Brandes to the AMOCA team for the summer through the generous support of the Getty Foundation. A recent graduate of Chapman University, Alyson will be guest blogging and posting on social media about her experience at AMOCA every Tuesday. Read her three posts so far:

• Asco and the Hierarchies of Art: Alyson discusses her interest in the 1970s Chicano artist collective Asco and how it helped chart her path to the ceramic arts.
  
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• Feminizing Brutalism: Ruby Neri and Her Giant Vessels: Alyson discusses how her research into Neri led her to question her concepts of masculine and feminine art. Leah Ollman's review in the Los Angeles Times plays a critical part.
  
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• Subverting Beauty: Cathy Lu: In this social media post, Alyson discusses how Cathy Lu's work helps her reflect on the culture of beauty in Los Angeles.
  
  Read More

 

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 Wanxin Zhang, "What's Up II," 2011. High-fired paper clay with underglazes and glazes. Photo from Making In Between: Contemporary Chinese American Ceramics.

Complimentary Virtual Private Tours

A Thank You to our Members

AMOCA members are invited to schedule virtual private tours of our current exhibitions. These small-group experiences with a staff member or docent are a remarkable way to experience the exhibits on view.

As a thank-you for your continued support, you are invited to enjoy these special tours free of charge. On behalf of everyone at AMOCA, we are grateful for your support and we look forward to seeing you soon!
 

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Memberships & Perks

Become a member (or gift a membership to a friend!) and enjoy the perks, including member previews in July and complimentary virtual and in-person tours. Your support helps us champion the art, history, creation, and technology of ceramics!

Become a Member

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Exhibitions Online @ AMOCA

New Acquisitions: Julianne and David Armstrong

Digital Exhibition Part 1: Twenty High-Resolution Videos, Narration, & more

Enjoy twenty brand new short videos highlighting works from the New Acquisitions: Julianne and David Armstrong exhibition. See the work closer than ever before in stunning 4K resolution, and enjoy narration and commentary from Nathan Stanfield (Exhibitions) and Ashley Rowley (Education and Outreach).

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Click here to see all of the AMOCA's Online Exhibitions.

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With social distancing requirements, the Ceramics Studio has shifted its offerings by expanding the number of private and semi-private studio spaces. Until further notice – studio memberships, on-site classes, and workshops have been canceled or postponed. We hope to offer a limited number of digital classes beginning this fall. To reserve a kiln in the Ceramics Studio or purchase supplies (for curbside pick up or local delivery) call 909-622-0464 or email studio@amoca.org.

Digital Awards Reception on May 2 @ 12 PM
Streaming live on Facebook and YouTube with
Beth Ann Gerstein, Ashley Rowley, and Nathan Stanfield

Opens this Saturday! An annual juried show featuring 74 finalists from 27 Southern California High Schools, striving to inspire and recognize young artists achieving excellence in their own creative endeavors.

Executive Director Beth Ann Gerstein will host a digital awards ceremony this Saturday at 12 PM, simulcasting on Facebook and Youtube (links to both on the website). Awardees receive a $50 cash award and a complimentary Dual/Family AMOCA membership.

Due to the temporary closure related to COVID-19, this exhibition has been moved online and exhibition dates adjusted. The full exhibition will be available online at AMOCA.org following the digital awards ceremony this Saturday at noon.

The Annual Southern California High School Ceramics Exhibition is made possible by the generosity of the Ruth and Joseph C. Reed Foundation for the Arts and the DEW Foundation.

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What's Online @ AMOCA

Making in Between: Contemporary Chinese American Ceramics

Digital Exhibition - Video Tour, High-Res Photos, Virtual Gallery, & more

Featuring works by Jennifer Ling Datchuk, Sin-ying Ho, Beth Lo, Cathy Lu, Stephanie H. Shih, and Wanxin Zhang.

Made possible by the generosity of the Los Angeles County Department of Arts and Culture, Pasadena Art Alliance, Ralph M. Parsons Foundation, Ruth & Joseph C. Reed Foundation for the Arts, Jason Lau, and Susan & John Sasaki

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Curated Virtual Clay Resources

A selection of curated resources from across the web, including glaze recipes and coil building videos, curator resource and artist talks, podcast links, and more.

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Museum Store Sale

Beautify your space! Bring ceramic art, jewelry, dishes and more into your daily routine. All unique and handmade. For a limited time, enjoy 20% off this selection of items. 50% of each sale goes directly to the artist.

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Studio Opportunities

Member services continue to be available during the shutdown. Clay may be purchased and delivery services are available. Youth classes have been moved online and the plan is to start summer classes in July. Several types of studio spaces are also newly available, starting at $225/month and up.

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Memberships & Perks

Become a member (or gift a membership to a friend!), enjoy the perks, and support a non-profit organization dedicated to championing the art, history, creation, and technology of ceramics.

Learn More