A History of the West Michigan Potters Guild

The West Michigan Potters Guild began in 1983 with a small group of potters who felt the isolation of working alone in their studios. The group endeavored to create a vehicle for discussion of problems, development of interest in various ceramic processes and celebration of the successes of members. All this was aimed at the mutual improvement of ceramic skills and education for members and for the community at large.

Several charter members of this organization have seen many changes and improvements over the years. From a beginning of less that one dozen the guild has now grown to over 80 members. However, the goals of the group have not changed. The guild sponsors and organizes two members sales each year. The Spring Show is held in early April at the Church of the Servant, and the Fall Show in November at the St. Nicholas Antiochian Orthodox Church. Each show is an opportunity for art patrons to see the amazing diversity of technique and product. After working alone for most of the year, it is important for members to share ideas, problems and challenges with other artists. It is also an opportunity for members to discuss and evaluate their own work.

The guild sponsors 1 or 2 workshops each year. These educational workshops bring icons of the ceramic world, to demonstrate their own approach to this art form.

Guild members sell their work all over the country.  Some members wholesale to national department stores, others sell through art galleries or at art fairs. Several members maintain their own studio/galleries.  Members  range from professional artists to amateurs and students. All members benefit from each other's skills, talents and mutual goals.

Monthly meetings are held at members studios or community rooms in the West Michigan area. Meetings are intended to provide programs of ceramic interest and education.