Inspired by collector Arthur J. Williams and ceramic artist Susan Maguire, Ry Nielsen founded ClayArt South Florida, keen to promote exhibition opportunities and education about ceramic arts and the many artists who work with mud throughout this region. With support from Susan Maguire, John Foster and the Broward Potters Guild, Ry coordinated the first invitational exhibit at Kolb nature Center in
Hollywood, Fl. That show featured work by Jan Kolenda, John Foster, Ry Nielsen along with 28 juried artists. In 2013, The Broward Cultural Division awarded CASF a grant to launch ClayArt Broward at Gallery 6 from October 8 - 30. Featured Artists selected from the 2012 Invitational exhibited work in Gallery 6 during Sept. 2013 as a prelude to the ClayArt Broward Program. Works by Catalina Aguirre Hoffman, Betty Wilson, Sid Walesh, Stephanie Hubbard, Susan Maguire & Klawdia Proia were showcased(literally) from Sept 6-Oct 7. In addition to demos by Catalina Aguirre Hoffman & Ry Nielsen and receptions at the Gallery 6, the program has evolved to include Youth Workshops at Osswald Park Recreational Center and New River Middle School. Over 160 students from underserved populations have created colorful glazed tiles which will be display at Gallery 6 and some will eventually be installed at New River Middle School campus as a permanent legacy. This show is also presented as an Invitational that will be juried for award winners in November. The selected artists will then display work at Broward County Government Center on Andrews Avenue in Fort Lauderdale.
