The nine local artists who created pieces for the Medicine Hat Pottery Association's annual Clay It Forward fundraiser are; Dixie Baker, Joan Glockner, Angie MacFarlane, Louise Meier, Dawn Olson, Richelle Orlemans-Pearce, Barb Penton, Marja Tros and Elaine Zimmer.--SUBMITTED PHOTO
kking@medicinehatnews.com
Medicine Hat Pottery Association has launched its second annual Clay It Forward fundraiser in support of the Mustard Seed.
A silent auction-style fundraiser, Clay It Forward is a collaborative fundraising initiative which involves Medicine Hat and area potters, as well as local businesses.
“A group of nine artists volunteered to participate in the fundraiser this year,” Dawn Olson, association special events co-ordinator, told the News. “So what we did is each artist made a pottery piece, and then it got passed to a second artist, and the second artist did the decorating, glazing and painting on the piece. So, each of the pieces is a collaboration of two potters in town.
“And then, we found nine different businesses in Medicine Hat that were willing to host our pieces for a silent auction. So, at each of the businesses, they have a bidding sheet and people can visit the business and bid if they want the peace. And then, all of the money from those silent auctions will be donated to the Mustard Seed.”
Olson says the fundraiser is not only a great way to raise money for local non-profit organizations – with a new one chosen each year – but also a way for Hatters to celebrate local artists, while supporting local businesses.
Pieces are located at Zucchini Blossom Market and Cafe, Station Coffee Co., Excel Physical Therapy, The Shabby Vintage Belle, Elite Hair Group, Cutz n Stuff, The Clay Trade, Rebel Power Yoga and Badlands Training Centre. They will be on display until Dec. 17, when bidding closes.
Olson says the group has no specific fundraising goal, but would be excited if it surpassed last year’s total of approximately $1,200.
“It’s just a great fundraiser,” she said. “And a great way to give back to the community.”
