For more than a few decades, the St. Albert Pottery Guild has been fashioning some of the best ceramics across the Edmonton region and beyond.
The guild features two major exhibitions every year. Once again, the traditional St. Albert Potters Guild Spring Sale takes place May 1 to 3 in the main foyer of St. Albert Place.
The guild is composed of nearly 60 members, however only 20 to 25 will present their art. The show and sale consists of functional items like mugs, plates, platters, bowls, teapots and plant pots. In addition, visitors can expect to view decorative wares such as vases, sculptures, jewelry, animal figurines and raku-inspired art.
“I personally find mugs are so personal. You use them every day and people like the shape and feel,” said Jill Cameron, guild president.
One pottery trend Cameron has noticed is “sgraffito work.” The technique occurs when a coloured layer such as an underglaze is applied to a piece of clay, and then a design is scratched or carved into it to reveal the contrasting colour of clay underneath.
“A lot of people use designs through transfers. And some people experiment mixing dish soap into glaze. They blow bubbles using a straw and it creates bubbles and textures on pottery,” Cameron said.
As for colours, they’re all over the map she noted.
“There are pinks, minty greens and lots of classic blues and greens that go through our kilns. It’s spring so we might have pinks, minty greens and other pastels. Even peaches and corals are making a comeback.”
Throughout the three-day exhibition and sale, the guild is presenting hands-on wheel-throwing demonstrations and hand-building demos.
“This is a great way to see the different talent in the community and to see what you can learn.”
The guild is also supporting the St. Albert Food Bank and asking visitors to bring non-perishable items to fill a box. Cash donations are also welcome. In addition, there will be items for purchase with proceeds going to the food bank.
The spring sale takes place Thursday, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., Friday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at St. Albert Place, 5 St. Anne Street.
