Shenandoah Potters Guild
The Guild
In 1987, a small group of potters were taking summer classes at the Strasburg Museum, in Strasburg, VA.
They felt a need to continue their clay connection during the "off season."
Thus, the Strasburg Potters Guild was born.
From the beginning, the Guild benefited from the historical significance of pottery to the Strasburg area and surrounding Shenandoah Valley. This provided a supporting environment in which the Guild could flourish, both in membership and community support.
After a few years, the Guild had grown from a handful of local potters to over 40 members, drawn from throughout the northern Shenandoah Valley region, from as far south as Mt. Jackson, Virginia to our northernmost members in Shepherdstown, West Virginia.
Early in 1994, in recognition of this broader perspective, the Guild became the Shenandoah Potters Guild.
The objectives of the Shenandoah Potters Guild are:
• To promote the pottery heritage of the Shenandoah Valley
• To promote pottery as an art form
• To promote and develop the technical, artistic and professional skills of it's members
We address these objectives through programs, workshops, exhibits, and sales, some of which are open to non-members and the general public. Some of our annual activities include the Strasburg Mayfest, participation in various fairs and festivals, an Empty Bowl Soup Supper and a large Holiday Sale in Winchester.
Events
- Barns of Rose Hill Sponsored Art Fair - April 19 2008
- Old Town Fine Wine and Arts Festival- Winchester VA - April 25&26 2008
- Blandy Garden Fair May 9th,10th,&11th 2008
- Strasburg Mayfest May 17-18 2008
- Northern Shenandoah Valley Master Gardener Gardenfest - June 7 2008
- Empty Bowl Supper - Nov. 2008
- Shenandoah Potters Guild Annual Holiday Show - November 29, 2008
Potter of the Month
- Name: Barbarah Robertson
- Location: Strasburg, VA
- WEBSITE
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Medium:
Stoneware
Pottery, tiles and sculpture.
I attempt to produce pots that are both functional and attractive, while at the same time, bringing out the spirit of the clay in each piece.
I tend to use my background of mixed media sculpture in my clay work, by bringing in elements such as leather, polished and rough cut stones, metals, feathers, and wood.
I enjoy the fusion of natural elements, using each to compliment the other.
- Name: Katie Anders
- Location: Upperville, VA
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Medium:
Stoneware
I focus on functional ware because I believe that the vessels we use in our daily lives should please our senses as well as provide utilitarian service.
Although clay becomes pottery-hard and permanent, I like my pieces to retain a memory of their origins as soft, malleable clay.
My work is shown in galleries and various shows in the area.