Current Ceramic Artist in Residence
Kaori Fujitani was born in Japan, and grew up in San Francisco. She earned her B.S. in Genetics from the Unveristy of California, Berkeley. After working in the business world for several years, Ms. Fujitani came to her senses and returned to school specializing in Ceramics at the Kansas City Art Institute. In
2004, she earned her M.F.A. from Arizona State University. Her work is marked by an emphasis on sculptural forms borrowed from everyday common objects. Her work has been featured in nationally juried and invitational shows, and can be found in
numerous private and public collections. She currently teaches ceramics at the Mesa Arts Center and Paradise Valley Community College.

The Mesa Arts Center provides one-year residencies in the Ceramics Studio for qualified artists.

The Resident Artist Program (RAP) encourages artists to pursue their personal approach to artistic expression in a fully equipped studio/classroom situation. The goal is to bring together artists, staff and students in an exchange of ideas and educational opportunities.

The RAP is intended for the individual who is committed to a career in his/her medium. This program allows participants the time and space to pursue techniques and a personal sense of excellence and vision, while developing a body of work. Residents are expected to be involved in the educational activities of the Mesa Arts Center and invited to become involved in the activities of the institution as a whole.

Selection of Artists
The selection of Resident Artists will be from slides, resume and letter of intent. Artists displaying talent and ambition will then be invited to interview.

For more information, please contact our Arts Education Coordinator at 480-644-6540 or to contact by email: artstudios@mesaartscenter.com