2025-26 Morean Center for Clay Artist-in-Residence Program

The Morean Center for Clay (MCC) is located in the Historic Train Station within the Warehouse Arts District of St. Petersburg, Florida. The Artist-in-Residence (AIR) program aims to enhance the educational experience of early career ceramic artists seeking professional recognition. The program is best suited for ceramic artists with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree who are just entering the professional field and have recently finished an undergraduate degree. Residents are accepted for a one-year term, with the option of a second term upon mutual agreement. The program is competitive, with up to five positions available each year.

The residency is a work exchange program. Each resident agrees to work 8 hours per week (one day per week, Thursday-Saturday 9am-5pm) in exchange for a 450 cubic foot studio, 24-hour studio access, and free firings (electric and gas). Residents receive discounts on clay purchases and classes. Additional work-for-hire compensation is available at $13/hour for up to 20 hours per month. Residents are encouraged to expand their body of work, apply to shows, teach classes, assist in workshops, and participate in critiques. Teaching classes and workshops is an important part of the residency; residents teach 1-3 classes per session and rotate in teaching Friday Night Clay classes. MCC instructors are independent contractors with payment based on class enrollment. A solo exhibition serves as the capstone experience, highlighting the artist's evolution during their time at MCC.

Facilities include an Anagama wood kiln, wood soda kiln, small train wood kiln, gas soda kiln, gas reduction kiln, raku kiln, 19 electric kilns, pizza kiln, Soldner mixer, Peter Pugger pugmill, ballmill, and spray booth. Application requirements include a $25 fee, 20 images, image list, 3 references with contact information, artist statement, resume, letter of intent, and bio. Applicants should ideally have a degree from an accredited school or university, experience mixing clay and glazes, independence in studio practice, and some experience with firing electric kilns. Housing in the St. Petersburg/Tampa Bay area should be researched before accepting the residency.