Timothy Weber, a master potter and former director of visual arts, craft and media for the Tennessee Arts Commission, joined the Appalachian Center for Craft as director on 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," Weber says. "I’m glad to be here. 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. I hope to help it continue to do the good things it’s already doing, only better.”

A native of Boise, Idaho, Weber received 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, earning a bachelor’s degree in studio art. After graduation, he served as an Alabama Council for the Arts resident artist for the city schools of Troy, Decatur and, later, Mobile.

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

During his time in Nashville, Weber maintained a full-time, 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 says.