We spoke about this at the March committee meeting and I wanted to continue with our initial open idea space before we begin to impose structure and realism into the picture. For a couple of days, let’s just throw all the possibilities at the wall. Even though a particular want may be ridiculous and untenable, it may spark an idea or unique solution, so 1) don’t be afraid to bring up anything and 2) let this be a positive phase. If you don’t like an idea, leave it alone, if you dig it, throw in your support. Detail is deeply useful, why an idea is beneficial is almost as important as the idea itself and we will pool the most wanted with the most needed.
We have recently had a lot (A LOT) of discussion on long term planning, use of space and problems we have in our area and have worked to address them to the best of our ability within the confines of our current space. Let’s keep those bigger issues in mind as we now re-visit concepts we had to table previously due to square footage/utilities/etc.
Some items that have been brought up by assorted FA peeps:
More glass workstations (separate from clay areas, safety, cross contamination, maybe entirely sep. space)
Space for new glass donation tools (needed to support new efforts, classes)
Water, water, water (cleaner, safer, less impact on others)
Pug Mill (increased use of space=more waste clay, recycling is cost effective for classes/free clay, needs additional space for additives and processing)
Damp Cabinet (better for longer term projects (good/bad), great for more complex projects - attracts and supports greater variety)
More works shelves for both glass and clay (supports bottleneck area)
Portable Raku solution (because…fun. yay fire.)
More Wheels (increase class size, support class use and individual use at the same time)
More separated workspaces (so classes and personal work can coexist easily)
Soda Kiln (I was serious about that ‘throw anything, no matter how ridiculous’, this is nigh impossible but would be super cool)
More specialized tool storage (efficiency and easier for people to properly clean up, keeps everything in a consistent place, good for new and old users both)
Slipcasting table (support a good intro to ceramics, it’s a draw, have access to a free one)
Vented glass work table (similar to Craft Guild, dedicated space, safety conscious)
What did you really want out of the rebuild that couldn’t be accommodated?