The ultimate purpose of the Fired Works Ceramics Exhibition and Sale is to raise funds, preserve history and support artists. This year commemorates nine years of almost 100 ceramic potters connecting with the Macon community via their presentation, products and skills. The event draws people from all over that flock to the southeast region to patronize people who make ceramic art for beauty and use.  Nonetheless, it also attracts folks who love the aesthetics of such a craft.

It all starts off with a preview party on Friday, April 25 from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. at Central City Park. This is no ordinary ‘meet-and-greet the artist.’ The menu consists of sausages, chili, a s’mores bar and spirits on the house. At least 70 artists will be available to chat and sell their art right out to the kiln. If you attend this party, you’re considered a VIP because you will witness and make claim to works before they are showcased for public view.

Fired Works offers ceramic workshops for ages ranging from five-year olds with a “sippy cup” to elders sipping from cocktail glasses. Everyone can walk away with a piece of art which includes a custom touch from their tender-loving care. When art was heavily placed as a line item in the Macon-Bibb County School District’s curriculum, many students (including myself!) would make clay ornaments that remain mantelpieces in our parents’ homes.

Pottery from Fired Works artist

From Friday, April 25 until Sunday, May 4, there will be a load of activities at Central City Park, a Knight Arts grantee, for our town to enjoy. And two days before the end of Fired Works (May 2nd) is also a First Friday. The theme of that day’s festivities is called Pickin’ & Pottery. Take the time to visit as much as you like. There’s plenty of history to learn, and the proceeds assist the Macon Arts Alliance, a Knight Arts grantee, with planning more dynamic art programs. This year is the first year they have partnered with the Ocmulgee National Monument to create a theme titled Ancient Secrets and Spirits, which will focus on our Native American’s powerful history and talents of making pottery.