May 19, 2023
Dear Friends of Peters Valley,
Spring is finally upon us, and as we welcome the warmer weather and energy of this season, we are reminded of the beauty and vitality that creativity brings to our lives. At Peters Valley School of Craft, we are committed to providing a space for artists to explore their craft, develop their skills, and share their knowledge with others.
With your support, we made significant operating improvements and capital investments over the last year: The Ceramics studio was upgraded with new Whisper Shimpo Pottery Wheels and stools. We invested in a back-up generator for the fibers, fine metals, wood, and special topics studios on Thunder Mountain so classes can continue through weather-related power outages. We also renovated and painted bathrooms in Valley Brook Dorm and on Thunder Mountain, and replaced the roof on the Special Topics studio. And, thanks to your donations to last year’s Spring Appeal, our failing Facilities Truck was replaced with a newer truck!
As we look forward to another season of workshops, exhibitions, and events, we are faced with the ongoing challenge of maintaining and improving our campus and facilities. From taking care of our buildings and grounds, to investing in new technologies and studio equipment, we are constantly working to ensure that Peters Valley remains a vibrant and welcoming community for all who seek to create and learn.
This is where we need your help. Peters Valley relies on the support of generous donors like you to continue our mission of enriching lives through craft. For this Spring Appeal, your donation will go directly toward our general operating fund, allowing us to continue to make critical investments in our studios, facilities, and staff.
Specifically, your donation will help us to:
- Award 10 full workshop scholarships to college students (undergraduate or graduate) who show financial need through the “Making their Mark” Scholarship Program ($12,000)
- Invest in new Wood studio tools and equipment to enhance the learning experience for our students, including replacing our tired planer($5,000)
- Purchase a walk-in refrigerator/freezer for the dining hall to replace a failing unit ($12,000)
- Provide a reliable backup power source during weather-related power outages in our Ceramics Studio by purchasing a back-up generator ($14,000)
In addition, your gift will help us expand our outreach programs to underserved communities, providing access to the transformative power of craft. We will also continue to develop new opportunities for artists and artisans to showcase their work and connect with audiences around the world.
Join us in reaching our goal of raising $50,000 to make crucial investments in Peters Valley’s campus and facilities. Together, we can make these much-needed improvements a reality. Your contribution today will go a long way towards supporting our mission of fostering creativity and craftsmanship.
We are proud of the impact that Peters Valley has had on the lives of so many people, from students and artists to visitors and supporters. With your help, we can continue to inspire creativity and foster a love of craft for generations to come.
Thank you for your support, and we look forward to welcoming you to Peters Valley in the not too distant future.
With gratitude,
Kristin Muller
Executive Director
