ASLD’s Residency Programs create space and provide resources for artists to work in ASLD’s community. In exchange, ASLD’s community across the Denver metro region is able to engage with and learn from both visiting and local artists. The Ceramics Apprenticeship is a yearlong appointment for an aspiring ceramist to receive one-on-one mentorship that provides a platform to build a sustainable career in ceramics. The apprenticeship is tailored to the applicant’s experience level and is available to both hand-building and wheel-throwing ceramicists.  

The apprenticeship offers the artist an education in how to operate and function in a professional ceramics studio, mentorship from the Ceramics Studio Management team and faculty, the opportunity to participate in workshops, lectures, and community engagement programs; and culminates with the prospect to show and sell work in ASLD’s annual outdoor art fair. In turn, the apprentice is expected to work in the ASLD ceramics studios for approximately 10 hours per week for the duration of the program. The apprentice will receive a monthly stipend of $850 to cover costs and materials. Please note that room and board are the apprentice’s responsibility.

The 2023-2024 apprenticeship starts September 15, 2023, and runs through August 31, 2024. Summer Art Market will take place August 24-25, 2024.

For a complete list of FAQs please visit our website.

Application Requirements

You will be asked to provide the following information as part of your application:

Basic Information

• Name
• Pronouns
• Phone number
• Email address
• Mailing address
• Website and/or social media handles (if public)
• Race Ethnicity Age

Artist Information

• A summary of your artist background and bio
• A description of your artistic practice
• 3-5 work sample images. Images must be in JPEG (.jpg) format, 300 DPI, 1920 x 1920 and must conform to CAFÉ’s file size specifications.
• A description of how you will use this apprenticeship to grow your own artistic practice. Describe the impact the opportunity would have at this point in your career.

Eligibility Criteria

This program is open to all emerging ceramic artists who are at least 21 years old. All interested artists are encouraged to apply – interest in learning is more important than demonstrated professional experience. Priority may be given to artists currently residing in Colorado. 

ASLD is committed to a policy of nondiscrimination and equal opportunity for all persons regardless of race, sex, color, creed, national origin or ancestry, religion, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or ability.