Pictured above. from left, are Ethan Goodman, Devon Townsend, Alicia Lindsay and Evelyn Gauden, glazing their fragile pinch pot-inspired shakers and imagining what the glaze will look like after firing. (Photo submitted by Karly Strukamp)
Mudpuppies: Children’s Center visits John Bryan Pottery
- Published: August 4, 2016
The last week of July, seven children from the Yellow Springs Community Children’s Center walked each day from the Center to children’s camp at John Bryan Pottery. The opportunity was made possible through a combination of generous scholarships from people in the village, parental contributions and several community volunteers. YSCCC toddler teacher, Karly Strukamp, an experienced potter herself, along with a community volunteer, Ms. Elaine Szulewski, accompanied the children.
The teacher at John Bryan Pottery, Nicki Strouss, had high expectations. She taught the children the ins and outs of ceramics and its history. She inspired their projects using poetry, stories and conversation with the children, not to mention years of experience, both as a potter and in child care.
The children made bowls and mugs using coiling techniques, shakers using pinch pots and city landscapes and masks using slabs. They loved the magic of glazing and its surprise outcomes. The products were extraordinary. Without exception, the children reported feeling amazed that they were able to create art of such quality and usefulness.
Such community collaborations are what make Yellow Springs a great place to raise children. Thank you, John Bryan Pottery and the donors who made the classes possible. Pictured above. from left, are Ethan Goodman, Devon Townsend, Alicia Lindsay and Evelyn Gauden, glazing their fragile pinch pot-inspired shakers and imagining what the glaze will look like after firing. All photos submitted by Karly Strukamp.
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