Common Ground (1996)
Introduction to catalogue for "Common Ground: Christine Federighi and her students over 20 years", Clayspace, Miami Beach, FL, May 11 - July 6, 1996.
Chris came to the University of Miami to be a professor of Ceramics in 1974, the only woman in our 3-D area. Undaunted, she built new kilns, got new equipment, cabinets and materials to build wheels. She reorganized the entire area so students had specific places for throwing, hand building, blazing, and firing. As the curriculum expanded, a more comprehensive and thorough program came into existence. She literally rebuilt the place. It was a big challenge and Chris met it admirably.
Furthermore, Chris and her students formed a "Potter's Guild" which holds sales each year to help raise funds to bring in visiting artists and purchase new equipment. This has been an ongoing positive influence for the Department, the area and for the ceramic artists in the community who maintain their ties to this fine teacher.
Chris is a natural force. She has inspired a generation of students, undergraduate and graduate. Together, they have built the ceramic area at the University of Miami into an outstanding program. The evidence is in front of us, in this exhibition and catalog.
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