Message from the Executive Director
COVID-19 UPDATE
On March 18, amidst the uncertainty we are facing, I was reminded of the power of the arts.
I accompanied Seth Charles, our Director of Ceramics, as he opened up the studio for students to collect projects, tools, clay, etc. More than 100 students came by. It was moving for Seth and myself to see the extraordinary community of artists that call Sawtooth home.
Sawtooth temporarily closed its doors on March 16. And on March 31 we had to temporarily layoff our staff. It’s very difficult for all of us.
For now, we are working to provide an online presence, experimenting with other ways of teaching and engaging with our students, and of course continuing to make art. One thing that everyone at Sawtooth is aware of is the sense of hope and well-being that the arts offer.
What’s next? We continue to monitor the situation and follow local, state and federal guidelines that ensure everyone’s health.
Many people have asked: “How can I help?” The situation is very fluid and uncertain right now, but here are some suggestions:
First, we ask our Sawtooth community not to ask for refunds at this time. We are planning to reschedule all our classes and workshops when we reopen. All credits will be good for two years.
Second, please stay connected to Sawtooth. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook. We’ll keep you informed of our progress.
Third, please consider making a gift to Sawtooth. We have created a COVID-19 Sustainability Fund that will enable us to establish programming when we are able to open up our doors to the community again. Give now >
Fourth, keep making art. Send us photos of what you are doing. Now more than ever, all of us at Sawtooth appreciate the power of the arts. I look forward to once again walking through our halls and seeing artists at work – laughing, connecting, and creating.
Thank you for your understanding, patience and incredible support. Be safe and take good care.
“Art has always been the raft onto which we climb to save our sanity. I don’t see a different purpose for it now.” – Dorothea Tanning
