Abstract
The purpose of this project is to establish the historical significance and integrity of TB-9 (temporary building #9), within its historical context of association with an art movement and renowned ceramic artist, in order to determine its eligibility for the National Register of Historic Places. TB-9 is the location of the classrooms and studios used by the first sculptural ceramics program at the University of California Davis, and it continues to function in this capacity. Robert Arneson and his students started a novel figurative ceramics movement at this site that acquired the name “Funk” ceramics. Sources of data used in this project include art history and biographical texts, exhibition catalogs, masters theses, journal articles, newspaper clippings, current art exhibitions, interviews, archival and contemporary photographs, maps, building records and architectural plans. TB-9 is eligible for the National Register of Historic Places under Criterion A because the building is associated with the establishment of an original ceramic arts movement that influenced the development of ceramic art in the United States. The property is also eligible under Criterion B because TB-9 is associated with Robert Arneson, a nationally and internationally known ceramic sculptor who began the sculptural ceramics program at UC Davis and is recognized as the founder of Funk figurative ceramic art. TB-9 served as his studio as well as his teaching venue during the period of significance pertaining to this nomination. Although TB-9’s significant period began over fifty years ago, Criteria Consideration G applies because the building’s period of significance did not end until 1976. Extensive research demonstrates that TB-9 has exceptional importance. This establishes its eligibility for the National Register as a property that has achieved significance within the past fifty years. In addition to its historical significance under Criteria A and B, and Criteria Consideration G, TB-9 is eligible for the Register because it has retained its integrity with respect to location, physical appearance and association.