Annapolis is no stranger to specialized festivals; think of the Irish festival over the summer, the wine festival this summer, and the fall festival this past September. All these represent opportunities for fellowship, perusing goodies, eating goodies, and exploring what the city has to offer. Two Saturdays ago, October 20, a local church by the name of Gloria Dei in Arnold hosted a pottery festival that is worthy of placement with the other wonderful Annapolis festivals. Potters from Annapolis and cities closeby offered the best of their work–a range of textures, colors, shapes, and designs of pottery. The auditorium of the church transformed to a handcrafted fair chock full of both decorative and functional pottery. If you missed it, we have the scoop. And here’s another thing: the church hosts this potter’s guild every year in the spring and fall. The fall sale is over, but we’re gearing you up for the spring sale on May 4 at the same location.
There were a number of potters represented at the show, many from Annapolis, and some from Lothian, Edgewater, and Severna Park. Of the Annapolis potters, John McClure, Blue Ridge Mt. Pottery, Garry Fritz, and Bittersweet Pottery all showcased pieces seemingly influenced by the Chesapeake Bay and Annapolis climate. John McClure’s pottery showed off matte textures and shades of green and blue on bowls, cups, and other functional pieces. Blue Ridge Mt. Pottery by Susan M. Schumpert proudly offered lead free, dishwasher, microwave, dishwasher, and overproof safe pieces of pottery. Pottery by Garry Fritz was made special by incorporating silk or dried arrangements into the pottery. Bittersweet Pottery by Colleen Adair showed off an eclectic mix of colors, shapes, and functions.
The surrounding areas of Lothian, Edgewater, and Severna Park offered beautifully crafted pottery as well. Renata Mastroti’s pottery is made in Edgewater, and includes neutral tones, colorful leaf designs, and simple lines on cooking-proof servingware. Butterfly Fields Bed & Breakfast’s pottery company, entitled The Goose at the Door Pottery, is crafted by potter Lynda Ells. Everything from earring holders to salt containers are made in the Lothian B&B. Donna Nelson creates cups, goblets, and planters from her Severn Park studio. The porcelain and stoneware pottery is both functional and decorative.
For new potter Jessica Rose, the potter’s guild is a chance to socialize with other potters, pick up techniques, and help serve the community. “I’m hoping to intern with another potter here,” Rose said, her long red hair shifting with a gust of wind coming from the front doors. In between talking to me and smiling at approaching customers, Rose directed me to look at the tables full of pottery and fill out a form for what I wanted. The process is simple: write what pottery you want on a provided sheet, and then purchase that pottery at the front. The guild even accepts major credit cards. Prices range from $12 to around $200. There is no admission fee.
Even if you missed the pottery sale, spring blooms with the chance to visit it. Mark your calendar for May 4; location: Gloria Dei Church in Arnold, Maryland. It’s going to be a creative, locally inspired show that’s ideal for stocking up on gifts. Visit the following site to learn more about potters represented: http://pottersguildofannapolis.com/.
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