Friends,

On February 22nd I turn 60, and for my 60th birthday I committed to raising $6,000 for our programs at Watershed Center for the Ceramic Arts. As you know, I moved to Edgecomb, Maine to take the Executive Director post here.

What I love about Watershed is that art magic happens here for so many.

Maine K-12 Teachers: When I came to Watershed to interview, a Maine K-12 teachers' workshop was underway. I watched the instructor and toured our new state-of-the-art Windgate Studio. The teachers told me they loved the techniques they learned and they felt eager to teach them to their students. Investing in people who teach our children art is key.

Artist Community: We build community by providing intimate, non-hierarchical residencis for diverse artists at all stages of their careers. Inspired in our beautiful, open-concept studio overlooking a gorgeous Maine pine forest, residents work alongside one another, collaborate on kiln firings, share meals, and forge lasting personal and professional connections during two-week themed summer sessions. Look in photo gallery.

Diverse Artists-in-Residence: In addition to offering scholarships for artists of color, for the past two years Watershed has partnered with The Color Network, a national collective working to promote artists of color within the ceramic arts. Funded by the NEA, Watershed hosted residency sessions in 2021 and 2022 for their mentor-mentee programs, helping them to deepen their relationships and artistic practice.

Artist Workshops: For people who love to learn, we present fascinating workshops led by nationally-recognized ceramists. Programs range from day-long demonstrations to week-long studio-based workshops and suit a range of experience levels. Check out our website!

I am enormously happy that we make art accessible at Watershed, and provide art-changing and life-changing experiences for artists. And each year, one-third of our operating expenses comes from generous supporters.

Are you willing to celebrate my 60th birthday by making a gift to support Watershed, to support art magic? I would really appreciate it.

Thanks so much.

Best,

Liz