Local pottery master Beth Barrett will have her studio open for the annual Moostletoe Studio Tour on Oct. 19, and she’s stocked and ready to go with Christmas ornaments.
This is the second year that Barrett has joined the tour, debuting her studio in 2018. Barrett fell in love with the craft about five years ago, and she finds the vastness of pottery techniques to be her favourite part.
Barrett mostly creates functional pottery, both dishwasher and microwave safe, that are designed for everyday use. She has numerous mugs, bowls, and plates, as well as ornaments, mosaic tiles, and jewelry pendants. She even creates bakeware, honey pots, and other lidded jars.
Barrett glazes much of her pieces with earthy glazes — blues, greens, browns — as well as with interesting prints and textures for an extra pop of design.
Lately, she has been experimenting with the raku technique, which produces more ornamental, non-functional pieces. The firing technique and the glaze leaves a metallic, almost iridescent colour.
Much like last year, Barrett will have her series of Christmas ornaments available to purchase during the tour — for those looking to start prepping for the holiday season a little early. She has a variety of different styles, some done in raku and some made with translucent clay.
Barrett’s studio is located in her home, where she has built a workspace for herself. She enjoyed welcoming people for the tour last year, and is looking forward to doing so again this year.
“It was a really nice time [last year], and it's really great to see everyone and see their reaction, and to chat with people as they come through,” said Barrett. “I have more product this year than I've ever had, and you always get better at something the more you do it. I think they'll be happy with [my selection].”
One Sweet Dream Pottery is located at 1211 — 5th Ave NW. More information about Beth Barrett and her work is available on her Facebook page.
