Board Bio - Spotlight: Dandee Pattee

Where do you currently live/work

I live in Casper, Wyoming. I am a studio potter, I adjunct teach at Casper College, and I am on the board for a local arts organization, ART321.

What do you like most about your job? OR What do you like most about where you live?

There is no greater life than that of a studio potter in a truly gorgeous state like Wyoming. I have the chance to think carefully about the work I am making and make choices about the work that are continually intriguing.

Where did you grow up?

Lander, Wyoming

What was your childhood nickname?

My sister used to call me Danner May, kinda cute huh?

How did you first find out about NCECA?

Jack McClennan was a potter and shop owner in Laramie Wyoming. I took classes at his shop and he took a group of his students to Denver NCECA. It changed all of our lives.

Tell me a story about your first conference (including city and/or year)

Denver (year?). There were four of us crammed into a hotel eating peanut butter and banana sandwiches. I heard people like Julia Galloway speak about their work on a level I had not realized existed. It was really exciting.

What’s your favourite color?

Yellow

What or who inspired you to get involved more deeply in the organization, and what was your “entry point” to the board.

I had received scholarships from NCECA and I wanted to give back to the organization. The first time I tried to get on the board, I ran for the Student Director at Large position and lost! I am glad I decided to run again.

Describe your position with NCECA

I am in charge of the Expo portion of the conference. Expo has grown tremendously in the past few years. We used to scramble to fill slots and now we are using an adjudication process to fill the spaces. It is amazing to see all of the dedicated and talented people who make Expo possible.

What’s your favourite thing about being on the board?

I have met many inspiring and fun individuals.

What’s your favorite part of your specific position?

I love working with the galleries.

Who are some of your mentors, and how have they shaped you as a person/artist? (both in and out of the organization/field)

I was Gail Kendall’s studio assistant for two years. My time with her was invaluable because she is intelligent and bold.

I was Silvie Granatelli’s apprentice, the apprentice experience taught me how to think about making a practical living in the arts and Silvie had high standards for our decorum.

Linda Arbuckle and Anna Callouri-Holcombe were two of my graduate professors. They taught me professionalism and they continue to support my ambitions.

Tell me about your work as an artist.