Sustain: Woodfire NC 2025

Call for Content

We are accepting proposals for in-person presentations and activities that may be included in conference programming as they relate to wood fired ceramics.

Proposals may be submitted as one of four types:

1- Slide Presentation - Presentations will be limited to 30 minutes with 15 minutes at the end for questions for a total of 45 minutes per presentation slot. 

2- Films/Video - We are looking for films to run concurrently throughout the main conference daily programming, which means we are not putting a limit on film duration submissions. 

3- Panel Presentation - Panels will be limited to 90 minutes. In order to stay within the allotted time we will allow four members on a panel, which includes one interviewer/moderator and three panelists.

4- Interactives - This category is an opportunity for ceramic artists to create and present works, demonstrations, or activities that incorporate one or more elements (earth, air, water, fire) of ceramics in time-based, performative, or interactive work. Proposals will be chosen based on the ability of the activity to engage other attendees, contribute to the overall theme of the conference, and space availability at Starworks’ facilities. Starworks staff will work with chosen artists to schedule any performances and install any work for their project. Please indicate the length of time your project takes in your proposal. (Examples of existing proposals for this category are a clay fashion show and kiln building competition) 

Conference Theme and Possible Topics 

This year’s focus is on what sustains and nourishes the wood-firing community—examining the practices, traditions, and values that keep this art form alive in a rapidly changing world.

Artist(s) must provide: 

-Completed Proposal Form - Download Here

-Headshot 

- Three (3) photos of single pieces of work – minimum 300dpi – plus descriptions (i.e. title, dimensions, materials, firing method(s) and year) (or) other content (i.e. publication covers, articles, action photos, etc.) that will help to explain your proposal. 

- 125 word Biographical (for website and press) 

Please email photos, biographies & descriptions with the proposal form to: contact@woodfirenc.com 

Note: If multiple people are part of the same proposal, each person must submit photos with descriptions, biography and their contact information. Accepted presenters will have their conference fee waived. No other compensation will be provided. Please note that all proposals and presentations must be translated into English for consideration.