The Evolution of an Organization

The Association of San Francisco Potters was founded in 1945 under the leadership of F. Carlton Ball. His aim was to pull together all the surrounding pottery groups and individuals in the Bay Area.

From this ambitious beginning, the Association grew from 11 charter members to over 200 Exhibiting Members, plus nearly 100 Associate, Honorary and Emeritus Members. Many of the ceramic artists working in the San Francisco Bay Area have, at one time or another, been members of the Association. It has played a major role in the growth and development of the Northern California clay movement through its monthly newsletter, numerous exhibitions, regional resource libraries, slide registries and its sponsorship of workshops by outstanding clay artists and teachers.

In the early 1960's, the glassblowing movement began at San Jose State under the leardership of Robert Fritz. As the ceramic arts expanded in the Bay Area, it was time for a name change. In 1964, then name of the organization became the Association of San Francisco Potters and Glassblowers.

To better represent the variety of work produced by its artists and the expanded geographical area it served, the membership changed the name again in 1986 to the Association of California Ceramic Artists. And in 1997, the Association changed its name to better reflect the variety of work produced by its artists and the broad geographical area it serves.

Although time and circumstances have changed the name, the purpose of the organization remains the same:

• To establish and maintaing high standards of craftsmanship and design in clay and glass.

• To encourage research, innovation and professional growth in technical skills and aesthetics.

• To promote public appreciation and understanding of the ceramic arts.

• To provide a medium for the exchange of ideas and concerns within the field.