The International Academy of Ceramics is the principal organisation representing the interests of ceramists worldwide. Its membership consists primarily of individual makers, supported by writers and critics, Museum and gallery curators, and private collectors. Correspondent membership is available to professional associations, ceramics work centres and educational institutions, which considerably extends the networking capacity of the Academy. Current membership consists of nearly 440 makers, a further 75 individual members, and about 25 correspondent groups, representing a total of 55 nations from all continents
The aims of the Academy are to present international contemporary ceramics at the highest level, to encourage cultural cooperation through ceramics around the world, and to facilitate communication between ceramists and museum curators, private galleries and collectors, art schools and other professional Institutions. Through biennial General Assemblies in significant international venues, through the regular publication of its Bulletin, and through exhibitions of its maker members, opportunities are provided for the demonstration and debate of contemporary ceramic issues. ln addition to networks that are constructed between members and correspondent associations, consultative affiliation to UNESCO provides links to a wider cultural arena. Periodically members are nominated to advise on ceramic matters, to serve on relevant committees, or to act as jurors or curators for international exhibitions or competitions.
The Secretariat is comfortably housed in the Ariana Museum in Geneva by long term arrangement with the City Council and the Directorate of the Museum.
Through this agreement the Museum receives on permanent loan into its library and collections any books or ceramic items gifted to the Academy, while dedicated Academy offices house all matters relating to Academy business, together with its Archives, The part-time voluntary staff are all well qualified and experienced, and include an administrator, translator, archivist and office assistant. All staff are available in the off ice on Thursdays.
New individual Members and correspondent groups are elected by the Council acting as the selection committee every two years. (Council Member''s). The next opportunity for nominations will be in January 2007.
General Assemblies held every two years are open to members and non-members Registration includes access to ail lectures, presentations and receptions, visits to museums and galleries, and tours to studios and other sites of particular interest. The next General Assembly will be in Xi’an, China in 2008