Bethany Rusen at work (photos via Indiegogo.com)

Last month, we wrote about the efforts by West Philly artist and educator Bethany Rusen to open a new ceramic studio and affordable co-working space for artists in Cedar Park. Renovations of the space, called Black Hound Clay Studio (BHCS) and located at 711 S. 50th Street, began this spring, and a few days ago Bethany launched a crowdfunding campaign on Indiegogo to help this venture succeed.

The startup costs for the studio are considerable, according to Bethany. Thanks to successful fundraising raffle held last month at Art Star Gallery and a loan from the nearby Philadelphia Federal Credit Union, some funds have been secured to carry out some space renovations and to cover the deposit and first few months’ rent. Bethany also managed to get some free stuff through Craigslist, including work tables, shelving and storage. She currently has four working pottery wheels, either donated by friends and family or bought used. 

Funds raised through the Indiegogo crowdfunding campaign will go toward the equipment and outfitting of the studio. Here’s what the studio still needs, according to the Indiegogo page:

“BHCS will have everything for a clay artist to make their work; that means pottery wheels, kilns, a slab roller and an extruder will need to be purchased. Also needed are things like plumbing for sinks and electrical and ventilation for the kilns. There are a lot of miscellaneous costs as well, everything from copier paper to hiring an accountant.”

For more information about the studio and to donate, go to: https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/black-hound-clay-studio#/

By the way, those who donate will get something in return, starting from a Black Hound Clay postcard to a cool handmade ceramic bowl, mug or plate (like the one pictured on the right) to a dedication tile hung in the studio to a personalized clay workshop or free membership at BHCS.