Firing Up the Creative Spirit in Stony Plain
At the heart of small town Stony Plain is a vibrant creative that breathes life into the town. Driving through the main strip, you may have noticed a sign or two with directions to the Parkland Potters’ Guild.
The Parkland Potters’ Guild is a non-profit organization steered by volunteers with a passion for pottery education. The Guild was started up in 1976 and has kindled community spirit and artistic support for potters within and beyond Stony Plain’s borders.
Pottery has a long and rich history in Stony Plain. Before Parkland Potters’, local artisans would take $2.00 lessons organized by the Parkland Regional Recreation Department. After the department was split up in 1974, a few members advocated for grant funding which lead to the creation of the Parkland Potters’ Guild in 1976 led by President Bob Barclay, Vice President Margaret Pike, and Treasurer Mary Ulrich. By the second year, the Guild had grown to 36 members. Today, the Guild’s legacy is continued by 65 active members who participate in classes, workshops, and local events. In addition to mugs and jugs, the Guild’s work can be spotted around town. Guild members are the artists behind the clay mosaic built in 1990 on the west wall of the old Fire Hall next door.
Behind the main building of the Parkland Potters’ Guild, one of the secrets to the society’s breathtaking pieces lies in wait. The Guild is home to a unique gas kiln used for reduction firing, a process known in the pottery world for creating rich earth tones that complete one-of-a-kind works. The gas kiln is the only of its kind in the area.
Along with classes for both aspiring and seasoned potters, the Guild hosts a series of workshops featuring professional artists from around the globe. While the health pandemic has put a pause on many in-person opportunities including fall pottery lessons, the creativity is still flowing at the Guild’s Crooked Pot Gallery.
Members of the society have their goods on display and for sale at the Crooked Pot Gallery located at 4912 51 Avenue, Stony Plain. From handmade pottery to unique jewellery made from over 30 artisans, there is something for everyone in store — and at a competitive price too! Not only is there a great selection, but the Crooked Pot Gallery offers functional pottery that is microwave, oven, and dishwasher safe.