COOKEVILLE, Tenn. (July 20, 2004) — The Appalachian Center for Craft, a satellite campus of Tennessee Tech University, has a new director.

Timothy Weber, a master potter and former director of visual arts, craft and media for the Tennessee Arts Commission, was selected for the position, and his post became effective July 1.

“The Craft Center is one of the country’s major institutions offering an education in fine craft, and it’s an exciting place to live and work. I’m glad to be here,” Weber said.

“The national recognition earned by faculty and students is a testimonial to the wonderful work being done here, and I think the Craft Center is poised for even greater growth,” he continued. “I hope to help it continue to do the good things it’s already doing, only better.”

A native of Boise, Idaho, Weber got his first professional craft opportunity serving as an apprentice to potter Charles Counts in Rising Fawn, Ga.

After completing his apprenticeship in 1973, he enrolled in Troy State University in Alabama and, while there, helped develop a production pottery studio in Brundidge, Ala.

He graduated from Troy State with honors in 1976, holding a bachelor’s degree in studio art. After graduation, he served as a resident artist for Troy, Decatur and, later, Mobile, Ala., city schools through the Alabama Council for the Arts.

In 1982, Weber became resident potter at the Kentuck Art Center, located near Tuscaloosa, and he maintained that position for 10 years before moving to Nashville and his position with the Tennessee Arts Commission.

During his time in Nashville, Weber also maintained a fulltime, working studio and exhibited his work both regionally and nationally.

“My work with the Craft Center will be much more specifically focused on education and craft than my former position, but I hope that my experience with the Tennessee Arts Commission helps the positive relationship that already exists between the two organizations grow even closer,” he said.

--Tracey LeFevre
This information posted 21 July 2004