Clearing the Air: How a Grant Transformed My Studio
I’ve been a ceramic artist for a little while, and what started as a hobby grew into something more. When I first got my kiln, I was firing it maybe once a month. It was a fun creative outlet, but as I got more serious about my work, my firing schedule ramped up. Soon I was firing every two weeks—sometimes more.
The increased use of the kiln brought a new challenge: air quality. The kiln was in my home, and with the recent wildfires, the air quality was a major concern even before I started firing. The smoke would filter through the house at unhealthy levels, and the last thing I wanted to do was add to that. I knew I had to move the kiln to my garage.
But moving the kiln wasn't a simple task. It required a special, expensive electrical hook-up that was a significant barrier for an artist with a small, home-based studio. For me, that cost was a huge chunk of money. Every bit helps, but this was a foundational change I couldn't make on my own.
I knew I needed help, so I applied for a grant. To be honest, I never thought I would get it. The application process was a lot of work, and it felt like a long shot. But I spent hours writing about my work and explaining how the grant would allow me to make this crucial move.
And then, the email came. I got the grant! The feeling was incredible—a mix of relief, excitement, and a little bit of disbelief. This grant is the reason my kiln is now safely in my garage. It's a game-changer for my studio because it removes the constant stress of air quality. I won’t have to miss those two days of work after a firing anymore. I can be in my studio creating, glazing, and working on projects almost immediately.
This grant isn't just about moving a kiln; it's about a tangible step toward a safer, more productive future for my art. It's an investment in my health and my craft, and a reminder that even the biggest challenges have solutions if you're willing to look for them.
Thank you to CMAB for the grant, it is very much appreciated.
