People from Iowa and Illinois came to Bonaparte last weekend to go back in history. No, it wasn’t by walking through a “time warp” but by touring the historic buildings of the Bonaparte Pottery that date back to the 1860’s. Not only were they treated to a guided tour of the buildings, excavations, and 150 year old molds but they had an opportunity to witness the pouring of clay utilizing those same molds. This weekend held another treat for the visitors. Several of the fired bowls and crocks were available for them to try their hand at glazing a piece of pottery that was formed from those historic molds. Mothers, fathers, children and grandparents were all taking their turn at the glazing process. I really don’t know who had the most fun. Everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves! It wasn’t just the brushing on of the glazing compound but the selection of the final color scheme that grabbed their attention. Now that they had chosen their colors and covered their work with three coats of glaze it was a waiting game to see the final results. Each piece will be unique and the culmination of their individual selections and applications. I must return to the pottery to witness the opening and unloading of the kiln. What an exciting process!
Marilyn Thomas, who owns the pottery, is considering holding continuing weekend classes to allow people to come experience the joy of glazing their own pottery piece. This is something that is enjoyable for all ages. Come join her at the pottery and complete your own piece of historic art. Families could come and each complete a piece to create a set of bowls. Don’t miss out on this great opportunity!
Joining us at the Villages Folk School is something that doesn’t require your being an expert artist. It is more about having a desire to learn from one of our artist instructors and then finding the passion to make it your own. This is an experience that can change the way you approach everything in your life. Come ‘live the arts’ with us and find out for yourselves what many of our resident artists have already come to know. Art is not just a process, but an opportunity to develop your very own creative lifestyle.
Contact us at the Villages Folk School office by calling 319-592-3700 or by email at villagesfolkschool@gmail.com. For a descriptive list of our many classes go to our web site at www.villagesfolkschool.com. The time is now and the opportunity is yours so what are you waiting for? Join us for the time of your life. We look forward to seeing you.
Coming classes yet this month are Pulp Play (Paper) & Journal Making, Beginning Blacksmithing, Beginning Hammered Dulcimer and a Rug Weaving Workshop. Call us today to make your reservations. Villages Folk School at 319-592-3700.
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