Both college and high school students were well-represented, thanks to the encouragement and effort of their instructors. Despite dropping educational funds and cutbacks in field trips, 100 high school students and their teachers attended Friday. Betty Jo Welsh, ceramics teacher at Franklin High School in Livonia, reported, “The students loved it, and the best part was before we even got out of the parking lot, several students asked me if they could stay late because they wanted to try some things they learned at the conference.”

Thanks to all the artists who so generously shared their expertise in diverse areas of ceramics ranging from inspiration to professional presentation of work. In Diann Bartnick’s words, “There was great variety with top quality people.”

More than one person commented on the beautiful location, and MCAA is grateful for all the Greenfield Village staff who worked hard on this event.

The best news is that financially MI Mud came out in the black, thanks to artists who donated their time, businesses who advertised in the program, everyone who donated cups, and all who bought tickets, cups, or t-shirts. Planning is already underway for MI Mud 2005!

On both days of MI Mud, participants could watch the Greenfield Village Pottery staff using early American techniques – for example, Ryan Forrey (left) putting the finishing touches on a piece of mocha ware or Anne Borrello (below) carving through slip on redware. In addition to his regular schedule in the Village Pottery, head of staff Bryan VanBenschoten (center) gave a special demonstration of throwing large pieces, such as face jugs, on Friday. If I were younger,” wrote Donna Johnson, “I would ask
Bryan if he had any openings in the Pottery Shop for another intern.... I
learned so much from him.”

Terry Dietrich (left) and David McGee (above) shared some of the tile making, setting and grouting techniques that have distinguished Detroit’s Pewabic Pottery for 100 years.