Our Mission

Cub Creek Foundation is committed to assisting emerging artists in the development of their careers. Our Artist-In-Residence program offers individuals the opportunity to develop skills, network, and find their voice within the field of the Ceramic Arts. Unlike the structured curriculum of Academia, our program emphasizes self-driven, experiential learning within a communal living/working environment to develop real-life experience. Residents are given 24/7 studio access and full control over their personal development. In addition to working in the studio, Artists-In-Residence can anticipate contributing to the day-to-day tasks of maintaining a thriving ceramics studio.

Located on 100 acres of rolling hills and woods, our rural setting provides the unique opportunity for artists to fully immerse themselves in their development with few distractions. Many artists take this time to develop new bodies of work, explore sustainability by researching wild clays found on the property, or participate in communal wood firings.

 History

After retiring from a 33 year teaching career at SUNY (State University of New York, Cortland, NY, CCF Founder John Jessiman purchased 100 acres in Central Virginia with the vision of building a program that would bring together emerging artists seeking develop their work and ideas. With assistance from friends, supporters, and residents, John constructed kilns, studios, and living quarters throughout the property’s rolling hills and woods.

Since it’s establishment, Cub Creek Foundation has welcomed over 100 artists from the US and abroad, sponsored numerous traveling exhibitions, and participated in regional conferences.

In 2024, CCF welcomed Heidi Kreitchet as the new Executive Director to help the program grow and evolve. With experiences ranging from AMOCA director to Studio Assistant to the late ceramic artist, Don Reitz, Heidi brings new experience, vision, and determination to the program.

You can find John making pots in his personal studio, firing his kilns, or passionately cooking a delicious meal for residents while sharing his insights on ceramics and hilarious stories.