FAQ
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WHAT MAKES ASH STREET PROJECT AND ITS MENTORSHIP PROGRAM UNIQUE?
The Ash Street Project is a mutually supportive environment of creative, engaged artists. In addition to the studios of Thomas Orr and Joanna Bloom, ASP houses a gallery, as well as semi-private studios for mentees, and a central workspace for visiting artists.
ASP:EAMP was created to fill a niche in providing emerging artists with an affordable means to gain professional experience. It is neither a college studio nor an apprenticeship. It is a unique model, where artists learn through active participation in a professional studio with artist and educator Thomas Orr.
In the mentorship program, each artist has 24 hour access to a dedicated individual workspace, equipped with a worktable and shelving. Participants are encouraged to work through ideas in the gallery space when not in use for exhibitions.
WHAT ABOUT FIRINGS AND MATERIALS?
Ash Street Project offers a broad range of electric firing kilns and a stocked glaze facility. Given our dense urban setting, ASP does not offer atmospheric firings on site. Program participants are responsible for firing and material costs.
How does ASP:EAMP HELP TO PROMOTE MY WORK?
ASP:EAMP’s mission is to guide artists in achieving their goal, whether it be to set up a professional studio or develop a portfolio for graduate studies. Each artist in the program receives a listing on our website, assistance in documenting their work, and participation in both a group and individual show in Ash Street’s commercial gallery space. Exhibits at Ash Street Project are included in Portland’s First Friday art walk.
WHERE IS THE Ash Street Project AND HOW do I get there?
The Ash Street Project is a 5000 square foot warehouse studio and gallery located in Portland’s Central Eastside Industrial District. It is within a block of the trolley and several major bus routes. It is a short walk across the river to downtown Portland and parallel to a heavy use bike corridor street. Parking is limited, so public transportation or biking is encouraged.
HOW DO I APPLY? DO I NEED A DEGREE?
ASP:EAMP considers several factors in deciding whether or not you are a good fit for the program. Some artists come to us with undergraduate art degrees, some with equivalent life experience. What is most important is dedication and focus.
Our application process has two parts. First, fill out and submit an application form. This is followed by an interview, which is ideally held in person at ASP. This allows you to see the space and for all of us to determine whether the ASP:EAMP program is the right fit for you.
LINK TO ONLINE APPLICATION FORM
HOW LONG IS THE MENTORSHIP PROGRAM AND HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?
The ASP:EAMP is a year long program beginning in September. At this time, through continuing support from the Tom Beardman Scholarship, ASP offers a monthly tuition rate of $350.
DO YOU GRANT DEGREES?
ASP:EAMP is a non-degree program.
WHAT ELSE?
As part of a creative, thriving, urban core, Ash Street Project has a history of hosting occasional random events. The space has been used for glass slumping parties, auction fundraisers, school projects and even the filming of Portlandia (see community & events to watch skit). Potlucks are a regular part of the ASP:EAMP program, and with Portland being such fertile ground for artists, you can expect impromptu social gatherings when guest artists are passing through.