By: Carrie Heath, October 28, 2024
The Gmeiner Art & Cultural Center is thrilled to announce the Atrium Gallery exhibit for November. “Fire and Function” a collection of wood-fired ceramics by William Moon. the opening reception for this and the Main Gallery exhibit will be held on Saturday, November 9 th from 2-4PM. The reception is free and open to the public, who are invited to come enjoy light refreshments and hear about Bill’s “Imagine Peace” pottery. This exhibit will remain on display until Sunday, December 1 st .
Bill’s exhibit will consist of a range of small wood-fired, functional pieces like mugs and vases. For thousands of years, wood-firing was the main way in which ceramic pieces were produced.
With the advent of modern, consistent heating methods like gas and electricity, wood firing has become a nearly lost art. Wood firing usually involves a team of people working together to complete the process in a large, specially built kiln. Bill took apart an old kiln in West Virginia, transported it to Potter County and reconstructed it himself with the help of family and friends.
To fire ceramics, each piece must be wadded and carefully placed in the kiln so that the flames will swirl around the pieces. Firing involves fairly constant stoking of the firebox (usually done in shifts by volunteers), which means having a good supply of split wood available. The people participating in the wood-firing carefully monitor and adjust numerous aspects of the firing. Some kilns are fired for five days or more. The entire process is highly specialized.
Surrounded by nature in Potter County, studio potter Bill Moon 36, is carving out a life making wood fired pottery. Bill has been turning pots for 20 years and has been a full-time potter since 2018. Bill says, “My pieces are rugged and dependable with minimal frill for daily use. I’m passionate about wood firing and using this centuries-old practice to finish my work. I enjoy the challenge it presents and the community of people it brings together. The adage ‘The fire puts the soul into the work’ – rings true for me. There is just something special about wood fired pottery.” For more information about Bill, including opportunities throughout the year to assist with wood-firing, please see his website at https://www.imaginepeacepottery.com/about.
The Gmeiner is open from 12-6PM Tuesdays through Sundays and is located at 134 Main Street in Wellsboro behind the Green Free Library. Admission to the gallery is free.