This springtime, self-guided tour is anticipated by all who enjoy handmade pottery and is nationally recognized as a gathering of exceptional potters. It's a special opportunity to enjoy the hospitality of local potters in their rural studios and to meet twenty-two guest potters invited especially for this weekend.

Six outstanding Minnesota potters will welcome visitors on Saturday and Sunday, May 12 and 13, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. The pottery studios are all close to MN State Highway #95 from near Taylors Falls to Harris and are all less than one hour from the Twin Cites.

The host potters are: Robert Briscoe, Harris; Will Swanson, Harris; Richard Vincent, North Branch; Linda Christianson, Lindstrom; Jeff Oestreich, Taylors Falls; and Connee Mayeron, Shafer.

Examples of the studio sites include: Connee Mayeron's pottery-filled barn alongside the Franconia Sculpture Park, Linda Christianson's dramatic new studio nestled in a clearing in the woods, and Will Swanson's sun-filled studio in the historic settlement of Sunrise near Wild River State Park.

Twenty-two guest potters from nine states will bring their handmade pottery to offer for sale. This gathering is a rare opportunity to meet and talk with these visiting potters and to see a substantial body of their work. When asked why they are here, the guest potters repeatedly cite the knowledgeable and appreciative audience here in Minnesota. Their pottery is, in turn, handsome, stunning, contemplative, earthy, extravagant, simple, precious, and playful. The yearly presence of so many distinguished guest potters alongside our well-respected Minnesota potters has gained national recognition for this weekend event.

Whether visiting one studio or all six, pottery enthusiasts report finding "Unexpectedly warm hospitality," pottery that is "Both useful and intriguing," and "The kind of event where you want to bring your friends along so you can talk about what you saw!"

Admission to all the studios is free and open to everyone. This year, the potters will donate a portion of the sales proceeds to the Chisago Lakes Schools Art Department, and the Craft Emergency Relief Fund.

Visit www.minnesotapotters.com for a printable map, photos, and information or call (651) 674-4555.

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