Monette Mark

I am pleased to talk about Monette Mark, whom I met at Washburn University as her student. One thing that stood out was how much she cared for her students and was willing to help with their creative process. She taught me ceramics, and even though I am not skilled in the craft, I managed to produce a piece that did not explode in the kiln due to air bubbles—a success for all concerned. I still have a hand-built teapot that I made in her class. This memory of Monette speaks to her character and the kind of person she is.

Monette became interested in art when she was eleven or twelve. Her first attempt at painting was a Monet. She has always been attracted to artistic expression. Initially, she worked in graphic design for sixteen years and was employed at McCraw Hills. Then, she attended and taught at Wichita State and Washburn University. Presently, she owns Fire Me Up Ceramics.

We were the ones who inspired and encouraged Monette's career. For her, the list starts with Glenda Tayler; she was very special to Monette because of her encouragement. Ted Elder and all of the professors at Wichita State University inspired her ceramic work. Despite being challenging, she said they taught her how to see art and community.

Monette's approach to art involves exploring her curiosity, focusing on curves, creases, bows, recesses, shadows, and depths. She often conceptualizes shapes and designs in her mind and then quickly sketches them to remember and practice perspectives to ensure that the idea will work. Her work involves creating sculptures and utilitarian pieces, constantly going back and forth between the two structures, and combining these ideas into something beautiful. She keeps a sketch pad by her bed to capture her ideas.

The artist's creations emanate a captivating beauty, effortlessly combining the elements of lightness, durability, and organic delicacy in her clay sculptures. Each ceramic piece is truly one-of-a-kind! I can't help but ponder which artists have influenced her remarkable work.

Monette said that the artists who have influenced her art are Lorna Meaden and her shapes, Josh DeWesse and it all about his handles, and Julia Galloway, the way she uses form and design. These artists inspire her to create work that directly impacts curiosity and exploration. She not only wants 3-D work to be seen but also touched!

As the Fire Me Up Ceramics owner, she provides a safe space for artists to unleash their creativity. However, as any business owner would attest, it is always complex and challenging. With over seventy renters, the general janitorial upkeep is substantial. Additionally, she hosts sessions where up to 40 people may attend. A Friday night class costs $35.00 per person and includes all supplies.

Monette is a great teacher who encourages you through the process, whether you are throwing or hand-building. She gently reminds you that it's like learning a sport or instrument, and it will take time. That's why Fire Me Up has a great community of people who are diverse in age, ranging from 12 to about 79. Everyone is welcome, which is refreshing.

Running a business presents several significant challenges, including juggling multiple responsibilities, securing funding, and finding time for personal creative pursuits. Accepting that one cannot do everything alone is a crucial realization. Balancing the preservation of a historic 140-year-old building with determining how many employees can be afforded becomes an essential aspect of securing funds. While the initial goal was to serve the community rather than prioritize profits, financial sustainability remains essential. As a result, evolving the business into a cooperative or nonprofit organization may be explored, although volunteers and donations are appreciated but optional.

For a bit of history on the building and how the gallery got its name, Sage Crossing Gallery's origins date back to the 1880s when it served as a creamery. Initially, the idea was to name it the Creamery Gallery, which would have been quite fitting. However, another gallery in Colorado already bears that name. Subsequently, the building transformed into the Sage grocery store, strategically located near the railroad and river, making it a central hub for visitors that crosses from every direction.

Fire Me Up Ceramics owes its success to several influential artists who have made a lasting impact on the community. Patricia Sannit conducted the first workshop two weeks after the gallery's opening. At the same time, Vanessa German led a hand-building workshop, resulting in nearly 100 pieces for the upcoming 70th Anniversary of Brown versus Board. Fire Me Up Ceramics also played a pivotal role in creating the Traveler's Sculpture at Redbud Park.

In conclusion, when asked what advice for fellow artists from Monette, she emphasized the importance of networking and collaboration within the local artist community. Engaging with organizations like Mid-Atlantic Artist (MAA), Artist Inc., NOTO Art's District, Visual Artist of Topeka (VAT), Topeka Art Guide (TAG), and NOTO Art Center can be beneficial. We extend our gratitude to Monette for sharing her insights. Remember to visit the gallery in December to see the Juried Studio Show, featuring esteemed jurors Lisa LaRue-Baker and Mark Ralston. The exhibition runs from November 2 until January 6, 2024.

Photo: Lighten