Shayla M. Alarie appointed Programs Director at Pottery Northwest
SEATTLE—In 2022, Pottery Northwest has re-thought almost every aspect of its operation: from new leadership, a bold vision for equity and inclusion, and even a new building in Pioneer Square. But the year of transformation isn’t done. The local ceramics studio has appointed Shayla M. Alarie as Programs Director to help inspire new communities of all ages and cultural backgrounds into the world of ceramic arts. Alarie most recently served as Director of Education at the Kirkland Arts Center.
“The entire team at Pottery Northwest is deeply moved by Shayla's impressive knowledge and passion for the arts,” said Ed King, Executive Director of Pottery Northwest. “Since beginning here this summer, Shayla’s fierce advocacy and caring for individual artists and arts educators is helping to pave the future for Pottery Northwest as we create programming and opportunities for ceramicists of all skill levels.”
Big-picture initiatives Alarie hopes to create include expanded youth programming, more community partnerships, and possible satellite locations to accommodate different areas within Greater Seattle.
“I have a long history with Pioneer Square,” said Alarie, an artist, art historian, and educator. “Pottery Northwest has allowed me to come full-circle. I know the culture and arts scene here. It’s like coming home.”
With a Bachelor's degree in both studio art and art history, and a Master's degree in art history from the University of Washington, Alarie built and nurtured many friendships with art dealers and artists during her time at Davidson Galleries, Stonington, and Foster/White (Pottery Northwest’s new location). She also served as secretary of the Seattle Art Dealer's Association for two years. Always passionate about mentoring artists and sharing her knowledge, Alarie has taught at both Seattle University and Olympic College as an adjunct faculty member.
In addition to extensive experience of building programs, working with partner organizations, and strategically crafting classes, Alarie’s focused dedication to diversity and equity will help Pottery Northwest reach its goals.
“At Pottery Northwest, we believe that clay is for everyone — and Shayla's presence on the team ensures that,” King said. “As we grow as an arts organization, we will be better poised to touch the hearts and creativity of our entire community through the power of ceramics.”
To learn more about Pottery Northwest, including information about upcoming classes, go to potterynorthwest.org.
ABOUT POTTERY NORTHWEST
Founded in 1966 by a group of local artists based in Seattle, Pottery Northwest celebrates innovation and access to education in ceramics, with a mission of fostering an inclusive community around clay. Over the years we have grown into a nationally renowned ceramics studio through our long-standing and vibrant programming. Our programs serve more than 1,000 students a year and artists from around the world come to Pottery Northwest in the spirit of artistic dialogue and as a formative step in their careers.
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Shayla M. Alarie, Programs Director