Can I Fire That?
Every studio has their "banned" items - the things you can't fire in their kilns. Not just "wild clay" or "random stuff I found in the parking lot", but the items students or members make that, for whatever reason, the owners of the studio refuse to accept for firing.
Recently, a few items that would probably land on many of those prohibited lists were produced at Glass & Stone, and it got me thinking about our list. I had no problem with those items - and my first thought was, why would I ban something? And then I realized, of course there are things I Won't Make, and that includes things I will have no part in Making. So this blog post exists to document the studio's basic policy position on the topic.
It's not that complicated, really - you can make and fire ashtrays, pipes, bongs, and other items for the use of legal narcotics; profane language; sexually explicit imagery; even violent imagery or depictions of violence. You may be required by studio staff to keep items in boxes or bags to avoid disturbing other students or members. Students or members concerned about items or work produced in the studio should quietly and privately raise their concerns with a member of the studio staff.
You may not produce, incorporate, or bring into the studio space hateful symbols or imagery, functional weapons (non-functional depictions are fine,) depictions or references to harmful stereotypes, or anything intended to mock or harass a marginalized group or non-public figure.
Studio staff will determine what is or is not acceptable. Appeals may be made once in writing for review by the studio owners.
If you are concerned that an item you want to make might technically fall under the restrictions of this ban, but be acceptable for ethical or moral reasons, please discuss it with studio staff before beginning your project.
Those violating these restrictions may be warned, required to remove the offending items from the studio, and if necessary banned from the studio premesis. Class or workshop registrations will be refunded for any future dates.
Glass & Stone Pottery Studio is a community-focused space, designed and built from the beginning as an inclusive and welcoming home for artists and craftspeople of every description. We believe strongly in the need for tolerance, inclusivity, and acceptance of differing views, perspectives, and belief; but we will not tolerate or accept bigotry or hatred.
