This weekend, I watched one man’s vision come to pass. I attended the Grand Opening of the new home of the American Museum of Ceramic Art (AMOCA) in Pomona, CA. The event was fortuitously scheduled on 11-11-11 and also gave us all the opportunity to preview the museum’s latest exhibit – Common Ground – Ceramics in Southern California 1945-1975.
AMOCA, the only ceramics museum west of the Mississippi, was the vision of one man – David Armstrong. In 2001 he began laying the groundwork and AMOCA opened to the public in 2004 with the mission to educate by presenting, collecting and preserving significant ceramic achievements of the world’s cultures from ancient times to the present and ultimately to provide a deeper understanding of cultural values and traditions.
AMOCA’s new home is in an old bank featuring a 77 foot Millard Sheets painted mural. When the grant for the current exhibit (featuring ceramic artists influenced by Sheets) was written, they had no idea that they would be moving into this space. It was as if the stars aligned when they unveiled the mural. This magnificent mural would be preserved and become a part of the museum’s history.
So, what does it take to be a visionary?
Looking beyond your immediate needs to the future. When presented with the opportunity to acquire the bank, David not only stepped up financially to acquire the space, but also knew that the Millard Sheets mural had to be preserved and wrote it into the contract with the bank – lest it be moved and/or tragically destroyed.
Hiring the right person for the job. David had the foresight to hire Museum Director Christy Johnson. Christy is an amazing director and has in turned hired the other right people to help grow the stature of AMOCA in the community.
Asking for what you need and being open to what is given. AMOCA relies on ceramic art collectors to loan and possibly donate their collections. My glaze instructor, Roger Porter, donated over 4000 ceramic books to AMOCA for their permanent library.
Involving the community. AMOCA not only supports their local community by being a part of the 2nd Saturday Art Walk, they also regularly reach out to the ceramic arts community (both artist and collectors) for support. I, and many others, donated toasting vessels for their 11-11-11 fundraiser.
Creating experiences. Not only does AMOCA regularly have new exhibits, they also have regular presentations from world renowned ceramic artists. The new location provides them with the additional space to display their permanent ceramic collection and have a working studio. In the ceramic studio, they will offer classes and other opportunities for those who are interested to experience the world of pottery.
Going with the flow. I am sure there were many things that did not meet with David’s expectations when the museum officially opened its new doors; however, you would have never known and in the end, it really doesn’t matter.
If you live in Southern California (or will be visiting), I highly recommend visiting AMOCA in Pomona. You will not be disappointed.
If you don’t live in Southern California, I’ve created a video montage of the photos I took at the exhibit. The Sheets Mural is at the beginning. Click here.
Do you have a vision for the future? What steps can you take today to help build that vision into something greater than yourself?
© 2011 Heather C. Morrow. All rights reserved
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Heather C. Morrow, owner of Pottery Daily, helps emerging artists express their true value and get paid what they are worth. Her products and services show you how to make more money, save more time while enjoying the freedom in your art. For your FREE audio go to www.marketandsellyourart.com.