A View Into HCC’s Creative Arts Program, Part II
In July’s issue, we started a conversation with Kari Rinn, Director of Creative Arts at Haywood Community College.
HCC’s Mission is to “provide accessible, affordable, and high-quality education, workforce training, and lifelong learning.”
This month, we continue with more of her answers about art and craft in our region, and at her institution.
Greg Vineyard: Why is art and craft important in Western North Carolina?
Kari Rinn: Craft is an amazing economic driver … artists have been instrumental in developing the character of this region. I have been told this is the largest establishment of artists in the US outside of New York City, and that WNC is the largest establishment of craft artists in the US, often referred to as the ‘Cradle of Craft.’
From Mary Cornwell here in Haywood County to Lucy Morgan at Penland, other schools like John C Campbell and Arrowmont, we are part of a rich history of craft education that was derived from the inherent knowledge of the people in this region.
Craft artists are a big part of the entrepreneurial heartbeat in Haywood County and beyond. Artists work for themselves, often employ other artists, and support the local supply industry. They are also a big reason so many people visit WNC: such a huge part of the region’s economy is reliant upon tourism.
GV: Craft Courses are listed under “Business and Industry” – can you expand on how craft is regarded at HCC?
KR: If students want to create an income from what they make, we work to equip them with the tools and skills needed to be successful.
The Professional Crafts Program is housed in the Business & Entrepreneurship department for very important reasons. Students in the 2-year program receive technical and design skills in their chosen medium, but everyone in the program is also provided with a strong business foundation. Students learn how to write a business plan, photograph their work, create marketing materials, and write a press release – a wide variety of practical business skills that will assist them to make a living doing what they love.
We also offer these types of classes for the community. Working in conjunction with our Small Business Center, HCC offers all sorts of practical skills for artists like How to Price Your Product or Service, How to Write a Business Plan and How to Perfect Your Pitch.
Students as well as the community have access to the Small Business Center’s free, confidential counseling services for new and existing businesses. Call (828) 627-4512 for an appointment. The college is here to support craft entrepreneurs no matter their needs.
GV: What do you feel are the most vital aspects of the Creative Arts program today?
KR: We have something for everyone: all levels of skill from the hobbyist to the professional crafts student. HCC offers two years of intensive study, culminating in a degree or diploma in one of four chosen mediums: Wood, Clay, Metals or Fiber.
We also offer continuing education courses and workshops for individuals looking to try something for the first time, students looking for in-depth focus on a particular method, all the way to the professional looking for advanced skills.
GV: I have been a Non-Traditional Age Student in the past, and it turned out to be an amazing experience because a wide variety of people learned so much from each other. What are the classes like in the HCC Creative Arts programs?
KR: All classes at HCC host a mix of background, skill and age. We have a wide range of students in most classes here on campus – something for everyone.
“Something for everyone.” One of the things I appreciate about community college opportunities is that one can find and intensively pursue an area of interest, whether the goal is to complete a certification or program, move-on to an additional higher-learning institution, or pursue an area of interest for fun. It is all possible due to the dedicated programming, administration, teaching and commitment by people like Kari Rinn and the staff in the Creative Arts building, as well as at HCC overall.
For more pictures of the Creative Arts programs at HCC, as well as full list of classes, go to www.CreativeArts.Haywood.edu, and for more information about HCC, go to www.haywood.edu.