This summer, our recent alum Shirin Ghoraishi ’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 Shirin to learn more about her experience at the “Pewter Casting” workshop with Jack Mauch.

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

It was essential for me to make sure that I am learning something new and a technique and skill that I can use in my art practice. Also, I researched most of the instructors and learned about their practice to see how it fits my artistic trajectory.

What did your average day look like during the residency?

This residency is an all-day workshop (9-12/1-5), But everyone in our workshop stayed till 10 pm every night to work on our projects. I went for a walk every day because it is just so beautiful and near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Keep an eye out for bears!

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

Our workshop was very intergenerational which made the whole experience more fun and productive. All the cohorts came from different practices and that brought different points of view and problem-solving. Because of Covid, there were 6 students in each workshop and everyone had their space work and felt very safe, but eventually, we became friends and we were together almost all the time.

For those who haven’t done residencies 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? Did you bring your materials from home or did you purchase them on-site?

Well, it depends on the discipline. I knew I wouldn’t be needing so many materials, but I had the option to mail tools and material which is great. Driving is a good idea if possible. In the end, I believe to be open and understand that it is a different location and let your practice take its turn is a step forward.

What were you inspired by during the residency program? Location? Peers?

The whole experience is inspiring; nature, peers, instructor. Also to know that Arromont is woman-founded and its tie to the community is inspiring.

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

My takeaways are new skills, and great friends I made.

How can people see more of your work? 

shiringhoraishii.com