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Pottery: The Secret to a Post-Colonial Virginia

June 26, 2026 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM (EDT)

Description

This workshop explores Colonial Williamsburg's historical relationship between clay and technology with which Williamsburg became an influential city for America rather than the Crown. The workshop includes demonstrations of works that bridge the boundaries between contemporary art, historical archaeology, and studio ceramics. These are characterized by insightful critique, deep historical awareness, and exceptional technical prowess. It showcases Kilian's historical approach to recreating antique pottery of the late 16th and 18th centuries and the methods and devices that created Williamsburg city's Americana. 

Workshop Program 

DAY 01 - (June 26, 5:30pm - 7:30pm) • In this special program, artist Thomas Kilian will provide insightful commentary, profound historical depth to America’s first colonial sites, and the pottery sherds found amongst them. Kilian will share a dynamic legacy of James City County and Yorktown pottery, which brought significant power to America as a post-colonial nation. 


DAY 02 - (June 27, 1pm - 4pm) • Kilian will demonstrate the recreation of Virginia’s first earthward pottery, including slipware. Along with engaging with real artifacts, each participant will receive one handcrafted, earthenware bowl, which they will decorate with centuries-old techniques. 


MATERIALS: 

  • Pen, paper, discovery pamphlet, one earthenware bowl, and decorative supplies. 
  • Bowls will be left at the center for later pick-up after their firing and glazing by Thomas


INSTRUCTOR BIO:

Kilian is an acclaimed functional potter and dedicated ceramic artist, known for his mastery of cradting unique glazes and clays from scratch.

His exceptional skill has led to significant recognition, including a commission for the definitive heritage pottery collection by North Carolina's Cultural Resources. He is also a respected authority on Early American Ceramics, regularly serving as an interpreter and instructor for Poplar Forest, a commemorative partner of VA250, and teaching workshops in Williamsburg, VA.

Kilian operates a fully-equipped studio in Chatham, VA and runs a kiln repair business. He brings this deep, practical and historical expertise to every lesson. 


CANCELLATION POLICY

  • Cancellations made 1 week or more in advance of the class date will receive a 100% refund. Cancellations made within 3 - 6 days will receive a 50% refund. Cancellations made within 48 hours to the class will not be refunded.
    • Students will have the option to transfer registration to another class in place of receiving a refund.
  • Special consideration will be given to cancellations due to health-related issues and family emergencies.
  • If you plan miss a session of class, please inform your instructor, or email our Program Coordinator, Lauren Hood, at L.hood@bowercenter.org
    • There will be no refunds or discounts given for missed classes.

Time

June 26 from 5:30pm - 7:30pm + June 27 from 1pm - 4pm

Pricing

$100/ student

For Ages 16+

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Contact Information

Name: Ryan Steffen
Email: r.steffen@bowercenter.org
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