One of the most important things art pottery lovers do to stay current on various goings-on is to attend American art pottery shows.
Each year, there are hundreds of conventions, seminars and shows for all things art pottery. Some are established events that draw people from all over the world while others tend to stay small and target regional fans and collectors. A quick search and a bit of research is all it takes to find the many upcoming shows, which is exactly what we did. Here are three annual shows that grow each year – in vendors and visitors. All are worth attending and are ideal venues for networking with others who share the same appreciation as you.
Zanesville Pottery Lovers Festival 2012
Every year in July, thousands show up to participate in the Zanesville Pottery Lovers Festival. It’s an exciting four day event in Zanesville, Ohio that allows endless networking opportunities, art pottery auctions and sellers who are eager to strike deals. The host hotel allows sellers to set up their wares in their rooms, where buyers and other collectors mingle in and out of the many impromptu shops. The experience itself is certainly worth it, and finding that rare Roseville or Weller pottery piece you’ve been searching for is the icing on the cake.
American Art Pottery Association Annual Convention
Another big player in the art pottery arena is the AAPA and it too hosts its own annual show in late April/early May. It takes place in Philadelphia. If you’re an AAPA member, you’ll enjoy a discount on your tickets and like the Zanesville festival, there are auctions and seminars by some of the nation’s leading art pottery experts. Any new book releases in the arena usually means an opportunity for you to get your copy autographed by the author, whoever it might be. Also, a bus tour is available and highly recommended, especially if you’ve never toured the Trenton City Museum within the Ellarslie Mansion.
Bay Area Pottery Show
This annual event occurs in February in San Jose, California. This is a good choice because of the versatility of the pottery. From Van Briggle to Brush McCoy, you’re sure to find your favorite pottery while discovering a new favorite in the process. Take advantage of the many lectures and talks that are part of the offering, too.
These are just a few of the many events and again, a quick search will reveal those in your region of the country. The benefits are many and these shows are always an easy way to strengthen your network while meeting new people in the process.
