The PNWS Board maintains a framework of ideas and happenings for the Members to flesh-out by networking and collaborating on projects, like groups sculpture shows. Our shows, meetings and website are like three pillars of the framework provided on which to build the PNWS experience.
We developed a new website a few years ago which serves to showcase our sculpture. New Members are especially encouraged, to get your work on the website (if the software is challenging, I guarantee, another Member is available to help. Please, ask for help or consult the tutorial video). Besides providing an extra opportunity for exposing sculpture to the public, the website serves as an information/networking hub, feeding into our newsletter, social media, focused interest groups and forums.
The most unique and dynamic PNWS “pillar”, the monthly meetings are both live and online, include informal meet-ups and Board of Directors meetings, studio tours, presentations by guest speakers, as well as some hands on experiences and public demonstrations of sculpture technique. These meetings happen regularly throughout the year, and are meant to educate, but also serve as a stage for connection to other sculptors. Every second Wednesdays at 7 pm, PNWS Member Alisa Looney hosts an informal Zoom meet-up. Alisa is one of the people that drew me into PNWS about ten years ago. Meetings with her are fun and dynamic, and I’ve seen Members from remote areas develop friendships and collaborative projects because of that meeting hosted by Alisa.
Besides these three core elements of the PNWS experience: Shows, Website and Meetings, many other opportunities exist, but depend on Member input and volunteer involvement. As a leader of PNWS, I envision a vast potential for interconnection and innovation as Members get more involved. PNWS is what we as a peer group make of this opportunity. Our next project could be what you and your collaborators want to create. We have an open pedestal for your art. What will you put there?