I took it as a compliment. During that initial visit Dankwean was in the process of changing from production of utilitarian wares for local use to decorative wares for export. Potters had to learn new skills, in particular they had to learn the ability to conceive of and refine new forms. Businesses had to learn to sell in the export market. Their staff, who had never used a computer before three years ago, now use high-end graphics programs to custom design ceramic pieces for customers in South America.
Designs are e-mailed and ordered on the Web.
Ten years ago this pottery had just gotten started in export marketing and would ship out a 20-foot truckload of pots about once a month. Before the current Asian economic downturn they were shipping out a 40-foot container once a week. Katz has seen pots from Dankwean displayed in nearly every Pier One Imports in the United States he has been in. He visits this store to keep abreast of what his friends are up to. During his last visit Katz was able to see the annual Rocket Festival in Phanom Phrai.