The past 3-4 weeks have been a real whirlwind.  Getting work ready for the Fall Pottery Sale, then having it which was fun, while simultaneously preparing for the Craftsman’s Classic Christmas Show in Greensboro which means Thanksgiving Day set-up and 3 full days of show. It was tiring as that run-on sentence was to read.  Whew!   Thanksgiving dinner was  a ramen noodle cup.  Hope to make up for that this weekend.

It’s hard to pinpoint the trigger, but during the show, a mild case of hives that had been aggravating me for a few days turned quite severe.  I called home in a panic Saturday night, not sure if I would be able to work my booth on Sunday.   Thankfully I had packed some extra of the medication I’ve taken for 17 years to control the occasional outbreak and made it through.   On Tuesday I got a steroid shot , and though I’m still somewhat  itchy, I’m much better.  All in all, the show was a success but I’m thankful to be home and very ready to return to work in the studio today having spent  yesterday processing paperwork and unpacking.  A potter’s day is never done!

The Craftsmen shows run by Gilmore Enterprises are not Fine Art and Craft shows, so there is huge variety in the sort of things available.  There are some wonderful artists and artisans side by side with vendors selling soups and dip mixes.   I prefer a higher-end show, but the turnout  here is always good.  Friday and Saturday mornings the lines waiting to get in snaked all though the front of the coliseum and out the doors.  There is  great camaraderie among the artists and vendors who regularly exhibit with Gilmore Shows.   Sunday morning there is a worship service, conducted by one of the artisans for those who are led to come, and a group of musicians gather in the main lobby to play many instruments including  a bass made from a washtub!    Take a look.

Wow!  Getting ready for an Open Studio is always a challenge and this year is no different.  I’m working to get the studio clean and presentable while still getting some last minute pieces ready.  They may still be warm Saturday morning.

Recently I was feeling rather square and decided to make these squared-off Baking Dishes and Sandwich/Sushi Plate.  The plates aren’t new, but often people wonder how I add the thrown foot to the slab built plate.  Here you can see how I place the slab on a curved form and put it upside down on the wheel to add the foot ring.

Here are the new Square Baking Dishes, still wet.  Later, I refined the shape and added handles.  I’m glazing some right now to have ready for Saturday.

I’m excited about my new website and blog.  I’m  hoping this will help us stay in touch.  I’ll be able to share what I’m working on, new ideas and projects, and  help you stay up to date on shows and special events.