Watershed Center for the Ceramic Arts

From the very early years of its development Jim and I took an interest in Watershed in Newcastle, Maine. We have been “kiln gods”, giving donations in support residencies, for many of those years hoping to help build and strengthen our clay community. As part of our road trip to Maine last month we were able to not just visit Watershed Center for the Ceramic Arts but to participate in their fabulous fundraiser: Salad Days.

Jim Bailey chooses a plate

Delicious Salad Days luncheon

Margaret "Peg" Griggs

Founded in 1986 by a group of potters and a generous donation of outbuildings and land from Margaret "Peg" Griggs, Watershed was at first a place where small groups of ceramic artists could come together for several weeks to explore new ideas outside the pressures of every day life. In an intimate communal setting residents worked together to support one another, build professional relationships and be wildly creative. Over the years the success of Watershed has grown to include artist led workshops, professional development for K-12 teachers and meaningful community outreach.

New Watershed Ceramic Center

2022 Salad Days Artist Grace Tessein

When we visited this summer during Salad Days not only did we have a delicious lunch served on plates made by 2022 Salad Days Artist Grace Tessein, but we were also able to tour their new ceramic education building which was made possible by private donations and a very generous grant from the Windgate Foundation. We were impressed by the size and scale of their new space which will allow a much longer season of exciting ceramic programs.

Watershed is a special place made possible by many caring people. Pictured above are Watershed's founders, George Mason, Lynn Duryea, and Chris Gustin.

We were saddened to learn the executive director, Francine Rudoff, will be retiring at the end of the year. Under her direction Watershed has prospered to become the dynamic center it is today. We wish her the very best in her future endeavors which will we hear include time to make some pots! Watershed is in the process of looking for a new director. For more information go to Watershed Center for the Ceramic Arts.