Fundraising effort could help studio become artistic leader in the state
Rachel E. Simmons, El Inde Arizona
Tucson Clay Co-Op has a ways to go to raise the $15,000 it needs to expand its Dodge Boulevard studio to accommodate its growth. Photo by Rachel Simmons
Maxine Krasnow wants her Tucson clay studio to be the center of Arizona’s clay universe.
To do that, the 75-year-old owner of Tucson Clay Co-Op needs more space. She plans to expand her existing space at 3326 N. Dodge Blvd., which requires money.
Last year, she launched a GoFundMe campaign to raise $15,000. So far, she has come well below the goal.
As well as a place for students, Krasnow’s goal is for this space to become the major clay center of Arizona. In addition to teaching classes, she would like famous guest potters to come into this studio to do week-long workshops for students.
The center has seen its student population grow in recent months, going from 40 students per eight week session in November 2022 to 90 as of March enrolled for the eight-week indoor classes and 50 for outdoor classes.
Russel Kahn has been a pottery instructor at the co-op since June 2022.
“It is a great part of Tucson and part of the community. It would be nice if it had a little bit more support from the town, but I think it will get there,” said Kahn.
Brooke Teufel, a student at the co-op, also would like community support for this new space.
“A members-only space would be another level of seriousness that will allow people to go deeper into their practice,” said Teufel.
So far, the co-op has only raised $475 of funding for the new space. To donate, visit the GoFundMe page here.