For the first time in nearly a decade, the San Joaquin Potters Guild played host to a high school exhibition event.
The show was part of the SJPG Fine Arts Festival held over the weekend at the Central United Methodist Church in Stockton.
Low participation due to school budget cuts coupled with the COVID-19 pandemic were among the reasons that the guild chose to pause the student show, according to Sierra High art teacher Kira Eadington.
She along with Kim Ray of East Union High were among the participating teachers and students in the SJPG High School Student Ceramics Exhibition 2023.
One of Ray’ students, senior Cece Herrera, took first place with her ceramic character.
Brisia Salcedo, who is a Sierra High ninth grader in Eadington’s class, finished in second place with her one-eyed ceramic character coffee mug. Oiao Qi of Bear Creek placed third (ceramic floral design).
Each student won a cash prize donated by the SJPG and a handmade award created by Don Hall, who was one of the judges.
Five area high schools were involved in this year’s two-day event. Included, along with Sierra and East Union, were Weston Ranch High, Bear Creek High, and Lincoln High.
“We have several (area) high schools who have already expressed an interest in joining the show for next year, including Lodi and Modesto,” said Kathy White, who is a SJPG member.
Eadington is hoping that this show will be an annual event not to mention a permanent addition to the Fine Arts Festival.
“It’s so great for our students to get recognized in this type of awards show,” she said. “They worked so hard to create these pieces.
“It makes them see their art in a new light and know that their skills and hard work are valued.”
SJPG is a non-profit organization founded in 1991 by a small group of clay artist who were interested in the camaraderie and inspiration from other artists in the field.
“When I joined the potters guild last year, I wanted to stretch myself professionally as an artist and hopefully bring back this amazing opportunity for my student,” Eadington said.
