Eureka Springs School of the Arts Celebrates 2024 Summer Ceramics Residency
The Eureka Springs School of the Arts (ESSA) proudly celebrated the culmination of its 2024 Summer Ceramics Artists in Residence Program on Saturday, June 15th. This vibrant event marked the end of a productive residency for ceramics artists Peggy Lee Roadifer and Elaina Michalski, who spent six weeks, from May 1st to June 15th, immersed in artistic exploration and creation on the ESSA campus.
A Creative Journey
Peggy Lee Roadifer, a dedicated studio potter, spent her focused time wheel throwing a variety of vessels including tumblers, oil decanters, and bowls. Notably, Peggy created all her own glazes, expressing delight in the experimentation process and the results she achieved.
The artwork of Peggy Roadifer:
Elaina Michalski, a talented sculptor, dedicated her residency to slip casting figurative sculptures using various clay bodies and surface techniques, including the innovative use of fabric. Her unique approach and intricate designs captivated both her peers and the community.
The artwork of Elaina Michalski:
Community Engagement
Throughout their six-week residency, Peggy and Elaina actively engaged with the local community. They taught workshops on hand-building with clay to local middle school students, attended local art and culture events, and interacted with ESSA staff, students, and instructors. This engagement not only enriched their experience but also fostered a deep connection with the Eureka Springs community.
The Closing Reception
The closing reception, hosted on the ESSA campus, was a highlight of the residency. It featured an engaging artist talk where Peggy and Elaina shared insights into their creative processes and their experiences at ESSA. Attendees had the unique opportunity to view and purchase a variety of exquisite ceramic pieces, resulting in over $3000 in sales by the end of the event. These proceeds not only benefited the artists but also contributed to the ongoing support of ESSA’s Artists in Residence Program, with ESSA retaining 10% of sales to fund future artist residencies.
Looking Ahead
As their residency concluded, both Peggy and Elaina expressed immense gratitude and joy for the opportunity to be part of the program. They highlighted their sense of accomplishment and the meaningful connections they made with the Eureka Springs community. Looking to the future, both artists have committed to returning to ESSA as workshop instructors, continuing their connection with the school and the local community.
Stay connected with ESSA through social media, by signing up for our mailing list here, or visit essa-art.org to discover upcoming events, workshops, and programs.
