The semiannual event featured work from artists that have been a semester long in the making.
Among the featured artist was senior art major, Candace Gooch.
Gooch’s table featured a collection of handcrafted mugs, bowls, teapots and tumblers, many of which were fired using a wood fire kiln.
“I love using the wood fire kiln,” Gooch said. “That process takes a substantial amount of time, so you earn that piece when you pull it out.”
Few artist use the wood fire process because it is demanding and requires a great deal of time. Intensive labor is needed for preparing wood, as well as, maintaining and firing the kiln.
Gooch said it is a rewarding process.
“You know that you’ve paid your dues for that piece,” she said.
This is Gooch’s fourth semester being featured as a pottery show artist. She is expected to feature a collection of her work during her senior art show in the spring.
The Christmas Pottery Sale also featured the work of senior art major, Megan Peden.
Peden said she likes the idea that her pieces have traveled all around the world.
“I have a teapot in Thailand that my roommate took to her parents,” she said. “And that’s a cool thought.”
Peden’s work includes both gas and wood fire kiln pieces in the form of bowls, plates, cups and teapots.
Peden said she is humbled by the thought that someone is building a home with her work.
“Someone may be choosing how to arrange a table setting with my pieces and I like that my work can contribute to that,” Peden said.
The Union Potter’s Guild, a student run organization that sponsors workshops and trips, hosted the Pottery Sale.
Thirty percent of the revenue from today’s sale will go in support of the guild while the artist keeps the remaining 70 percent.
Chris Nadaskay, university professor of art, said the sale helps students understand more fully what it will mean to be a practicing professional potter.
“I think it’s a tremendous blessing for students to display and sale in a venue that is semi-professional and have the opportunity to make a little money,” Nadaskay said.
Each artist has worked countless hours preparing pottery for today’s sale.
“I hope that people will recognize and are mindful of that fact,” Gooch said. “I hope they can appreciate the craftsmanship of a handmade dish instead of a store-bought one.”
