This summer, our recent alum Alonzo Pantoja ’20 traveled to Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. This was a part of the MCAD/Arrowmont University Fellows Matching Scholarship, supported by the Windgate Foundation. This is a unique program in which two MFA students are awarded a free week-long summer workshop, plus room, board, and a travel stipend during the summer after they graduate. This program is just one of our growing number of Launch Opportunities for MFA students.

We caught up with Alonzo to learn more about their experience at the “Alternative Materials and Processes in Jewelry/ Object Making” workshop.

What were some of your goals going into your time there?

Honestly to just make something. I have been teaching since February 2021 and that is its own practice so I have not had any time for my own studio work. I was really eager to get back to a community of artists and studio space/ time. I also wanted to take a workshop that was sort of out of my area so that I could really focus and challenge myself.

What did your average day look like during your time there?

It was pretty structured which I thought was actually helpful for me who thrives on a schedule. We would start with breakfast followed by class, then lunch, more class time, dinner and lastly open studio time until 11pm. The class was heavy in demos so we spent a lot of time watching Emily (the instructor) and then having some time to try out the techniques. Emily really was interested in offering different ways of making work and allowing us to pick and choose what worked best for us.

Can you speak about your cohort while you were there? How much contact did you have with them?

Oh they all were great! I was the only person with zero metals experience and everyone was really supportive and would offer their help. They also would give me different materials to try out and work with (even if I had no clue where to start). We saw each other a lot and would also spend some time in the dining area. The thing about Arrowmont is that everyone there is eager to get back to the studios and so we spent a lot of time in the studios. Emily was also great! She really is a wonderful artist and educator who has an array of ideas and problem solvings skills.

For those who haven’t done workshops like this before, there can be a lot of questions about logistics, specifically when it comes to materials. Can you talk a little about how you transported your practice to a new location?

That’s a really good question! Because I had zero experience I chose to not buy any metal tools or materials until I got to Arrowmont (they have an art store). I did take my fiber supplies like yarn, thread, needles, fishing line, notepads and those can easily be transported on a plane. I do think that you have to sacrifice a little bit of your practice because we can’t physically take all our supplies. I like to hold processes and experiences over materials and physical objects so for me it was a bit easier to travel lightly.

What were you inspired by during the experience? Location? Peers? Other?

I was really inspired by all the artists there. Everyone is at a different point in their artistic careers and it’s great to see everyone come together and share their perspectives. I really really love the location of Arrowmont! It is such a special place – I definitely see myself going back in the near future.

What were your takeaways about your work, career or practice?

The biggest takeaway is I want to do more workshops and residencies. It was a truly great experience to be away from home and be immersed with other artists. It really pushed me to just make things because the time is ticking.

How can people see more of your work?

Yes, my website is Alonzopantoja.com and my IG handle is @cilantro.cutie