Watermark Art Center and Bemidji State University  announce the 11th annual It’s Only Clay National Juried Ceramics Competition and Exhibition.

This annual event is a collaboration sponsored by WMAC and Bemidji State University.  IOC 2013 features a workshop on the campus of BSU, a community lecture and a juried exhibition of functional ceramics at the BCAC selected by guest artist and potter Andrea Leila Denecke. Previous jurors include: Guillermo Cueller, Simon Levin, Richard Bresnahan, Linda Christianson, Jeff Oestreich, Robert Briscoe, Bill Gossman and Bob and Cheryl Husby.

2013 Juror Andrea Leila Denecke

denecke-#2My work comprises three different styles in that I make sculptural forms, purely functional porcelain and stoneware vessels and also hybrid vessels which incorporate some of my handbuilt sculptural sensibilities and techniques to create functional forms, some of which reference indigenous architecture. The elusive and enigmatic communications of form have been the focus of my work. I create objects which may evoke memory responses or instill a meditative state based on various stimuli which have influenced me. These range from my appreciation of the beauty of the cosmos to my empathy for the Zen rock gardens of Japan. In my sculpture I have chosen to work with abstract minimal forms which have a simplicity and similarity about them and can also elicit a sense of strength and timelessness.

More about Andrea Leila Denecke

IOC 2013  JURIED COMPETITION & EXHIBIT

The IOC 2013 exhibit is a juried competition focusing on, and dedicated to, functional ceramics. Selected works will be a part of the exhibit at the BCAC from November 1st to December 21st, 2013.  The opening reception will be on Friday, Nov. 1st from 5 to 7pm with a brief talk and announcement of awards by Denecke and Professor Butch Holden. Prize money for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place winners equaling $1,600.00 and additional purchase awards for work going towards the Margaret Harlow Vessel Collection at BSU.

  • Guidelines: for submissions are outlined in the IOC – 2013 Prospectus
  • Deadline for submissions: all IOC 2013 Exhibit Application  must be complete and postmarked September 6th, 2013.
  • Application fee: $30.00 for 3 entries.
  • Work will be selected based on function, form, aesthetic, craftsmanship and surface design/treatment.
  • Exhibition Dates: November 1st through December 21st, 2013.
  • Opening Reception and Awards: November 1st from 5 to 7 pm as a part of the First Friday Art Walk.

Awards  In 2013 there will be prize money for 1st place $800.00, 2nd place$500.00 and 3rd place $300.00 plus additional purchase awards will be made with work going towards the Margaret Harlow Vessel Collection at BSU

Artist Lecture  – Wednesday October 30th, 2013 – 7pm

Join us for a lecture by 2013 IOC Juror – Andrea Leila Denecke, postcard house “Textures, Pattern and Influences of Japan in the Work of Andrea Leila Denecke” hosted at the Headwaters School of Music and the Arts.  Denecke will talk about her process of creating surface texture and pattern with inlaid granite as well as the history of her education and experiences in Japan.  Join us at the Headwaters School of Music and the Arts at 6:30 for refreshements, lecture starts at 7pm.    The lecture is free and open to the public.