Margo Bryan-Petersen

I have been involved in ceramics, teaching, and community programs since moving to Utah 11 years ago, and before then when I lived in Colorado. I enjoy teaching almost as much as creating my own work. I have worked as an Artist in Residence at elementary schools around the Salt Lake area, helped create the art program for the middle school students at a new charter school, taught art foundations to high school students at Horizonte, and teach programs through YouthCityArtWays (formerly Global Artways) My focus is clay but I also can teach basic drawing and painting classes and include some drawing in ceramics classes when appropriate. Mosaic murals created with my students using hand made multi-dimension tiles, can be found at several schools around the valley. At other times students have created their own art works or simple pottery pieces which they take home. I like to integrate the art or craft focus of what I'm teaching with some aspect of the lives of those I'm teaching and/or the core curriculum when appropriate. As important as technique, theory, and history are, I believe developing a sense of artistic vision and self insight important elements of a good art class experience. Sometimes making art takes guidance, but it should always be fun. I encourage students by respecting them, by sharing my own joy in creativity, and helping them find their creative voice. My own area of interest is in making larger scale handmade tile murals and hand built (slab, coil, pinch) pieces. I enjoy working with diverse populations. I'm currently working with The Lost Boys of Sudan Clay Cow Project, helping several young men develop a fund raising project for their community. I'm currently president of Clay Arts Utah (www.clayartsutah.org). I have an MFA from the University of Colorado and a BFA from the Kansas City Art Institute. Please contact me for further information.