Lydia Thompson, Art Professor, to Receive Recognition from International Ceramic Arts Group

Lydia Thompson, a distinguished professor of art, is set to be honored with the prestigious 2024 National Council on Education for the Ceramic Arts Honorary Member Award at the upcoming annual conference in Richmond, Virginia. This award recognizes individuals who have made significant and transformative contributions to the ceramic arts through their creativity, scholarship, activism, or professionalism.

With over five decades of experience in the field, Thompson, the former chair of the Department of Art & Art History, has not only curated and juried exhibitions nationwide but has also worked extensively with local youth groups. Her artwork has been showcased in galleries, museums, and art centers across the globe, and she has conducted workshops and lectures throughout the United States. In 2022, she was honored as the Constellation CLT artist at the Mint Museum of Art.

The National Council on Education for the Ceramic Arts (NCECA) is a renowned global organization dedicated to advancing knowledge and fostering the growth of ceramic arts while nurturing the next generation of ceramic artists and enthusiasts. With a membership exceeding 4,000 individuals from over 20 countries, NCECA impacts thousands more through its various programs, events, exhibitions, publications, and resources.

Additionally, current student Teriyana Wright will also be recognized at this year’s NCECA conference, scheduled for March 20. Wright, a recipient of the NCECA Multicultural Fellowship, is on track to complete her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art with a concentration in 3-D art this year. This award highlights her talent and dedication to the ceramic arts.