Pottery has always been an art and science of the earth. Foraging for local clays begins a conversation with our local landscape. Through observation and experimentation our appreciation deepens for the unique histories and personalities of the minerals in our hands.

This two day intro explores the complex chemistry and creativity of working with wild clays of the Pacific Northwest and how to integrate them into your pottery practice.

Saturday September 13th and Sunday September 14th from 10-4pm

We will spend the first day meeting the glacial deposits common to the puget sound and learning about the unique geology of the region. We will discuss foraging, processing, clay bodies, blending and more! Seattle’s geology, as well as recent industrial history has limited the clay resources of the region, so it is important to know that while some foraging is possible in the area, this workshop will focus on applying this knowledge to the Pacific Northwest as well.

The first day will be at an outdoor foraging location outside of Seattle, TBA. Carpooling will be coordinated for those needing a ride or wish to share the ride with other participants. The second day will be at Of the Earth Collective in South Seattle.

Workshop cost is $325.

This workshop is taking place on the unceded indigenous lands of the Duwamish, Suquamish, Stillaguamish, and Muckleshoot People. Understanding our materials as potters connects us intimately with the geologic, as well as peopled histories of these lands. It is our responsibility as guests in these places to come with respect and care for these histories and ecosystems, so that we are contributing to connection and protection and not perpetuating extraction and harm.

Workshop Format

On Saturday, we will meet at our foraging location to:

• experience different clay personalities one finds when foraging,

• identify appropriate places for foraging,

• process clay for best handbuilding or wheel throwing results

• discuss the basics of blending theory, additives, and more

• blend and build a small wild clay bowl that will then be bisque fired and available to pick up two weeks later.

On our second day, back at Of The Earth Collective, south Seattle we will:

• discuss kiln firing protocols and techniques, as well as alternative firing methods

• explore the basics of natural glazes and slips

• make our own line blend glaze tests and glaze our handbuilt bowls from day one