Potters' Tour

Studios

Ambrose Pottery:

Bob Bonnet lives in a refurbished 1870's general store in Ambrose. Just outside the house is an old barn that is being taken over by his studio. He currently has a display room, kiln room and glazing room. Outside is his gas kiln. His also uses the nearby bridge for his special 'projects'. Bob's work is expressive, functional, and warm.

FMS Studio:

Michael Smithhammer of FMS Studio relocated to Indiana five years ago. Although he works in many media, he particularly likes clay. He specializes in hand-built pieces. Working spontaneously, he shapes an object and then uses the form as for carving or drawing. He uses an electric kiln in his home but will get different effects by using other types of kilns.

Hedman Pottery:

Donn Hedman can look out his studio window and see his sheep while he throws. The view from his studio provides a pastoral backdrop to the work of creating his pottery. Donn's work is the result of many years as a potter, a teacher, living in Africa, and his mastery of the trade.

Little Mahoning Creek Pottery:

Trained in the culinary arts, Nancy Smeltzer feels that many of her pieces are meant to be utilized in the everyday rituals of eating and drinking. Birds, plants and animals that live around the Smicksburg community are often reflected on her pottery. Nancy finds that glazing from wood ash and salt enhance the “wonderful, imprintable quality of clay.”

Smicksburg Pottery:

Betty Hedman is not only the owner and operator of the well known pottery shop in Smicksburg, but she is also the owner/potter in the attached studio.She fires in the kilns behind her studio. She uses flame, kiln atmosphere, and salt as the elements that intimately intermingle with her pots to give them the warm rich colors and surface she desires. Josh Floyd will have his work on display in this tour.

Stoke Hole Pottery:

Birch Frew may be known best for his love of wood firing and also kiln building. His "once fire" technique is a challenge and the various methods of decorations he makes are notable because they are done on "greenware". Next to his studio is his gallary where his and others are show.

Windblown Studio:

Rita Nichols uses her experience in pottery and art to create functional pottery. She also shares her knowledge and experience by teaching classes. Windblown Studio is 3 miles from the old Clay House located in a peaceful, stimulating and open environment.