Pre-College profile: Matthew Pritchard, Print + Ceramics

Matthew Pritchard received a BA and an MA from California State University Northridge and an MFA from Syracuse University. In 2016, he joined the Cleveland Institute of Art as the technical specialist for the Ceramics Department. He has exhibited extensively in Los Angeles and New York. Recently, he answered a few questions for us about art, design and his Pre-College course.

What would you say to a student who is excited—but a little nervous—about taking your Pre-College class this summer?

It’s ok to be nervous! Building lifelong relationships and learning new skills is exciting.

What do you love about your specific art or design discipline?

Clay is an ancient material, but it has the potential to be anything.

What do you think it means to be a real artist?

An artist is someone who is actively participating in a creative community.

Tell us about one moment or event when you aware of feeling really successful or happy in your work.

Every time I have been able to travel because of making art.

What’s the most difficult thing about being an artist?

The dedication it takes to be an artist.

What do you know now that you wish you knew when you were in high school?

You have to define success for yourself.

To learn more about Pre-College, including the Print + Ceramics course, click here.