Dana Weiss, of
Earth & Fire Pottery
in New London, will exhibit her pottery in the Southwest Minnesota Arts Council Gallery from November 10-December 22, 2016. Weiss was first introduced to pottery in 2008 by Julie and Glen Joplin, at the Pottery Workshop. She says, "I have been able to rediscover my love of art and craftsmanship and have enjoyed seeing other people validate my work."
In 2012 Weiss was awarded an Individual Artist Development grant from SMAC, where she was able to study under Craig Edwards to further develop her skills in clay construction and design techniques. She displayed those pieces and received a positive reception from Willmar Area Arts Council's Studio Hop tour and Celebrate Art/Celebrate Coffee event.
Weiss attended high school at a music academy in Sarajevo (former Yugoslavia), studying piano and guitar. When the war broke out she left for Kibbutz in Isreal where she learned Hebrew and taught kindergarten for 10 years. She then immigrated to the U.S. with her husband, and they made their home in New London, MN.
Artist Statement:
"Clay is sensitive and responsive to the human touch when it's soft. When fired , clay becomes dense and strong. It is this responsive nature of the clay that continues to interest me. Clay responds to your touch, then you respond to it. The same happens in the firing process with glaze materials and atmosphere of the kiln. Clay is a supportive and demanding medium for the creative journey of making.
It is my goal to draw attention to the amazing forms, color combination, surfaces and designs. To me, the most successful pieces are those that leave their purpose open to the imagination of the user.
I create my pottery using the slab-building method. Clay is rolled out flat, cut, and then imprinted with texture before being formed into functional or decorative pieces. The results of clay, glazes, heat and the flashing of flame through the kiln vary and are unique to each firing. Lead free glazes are used in order for the functional pieces to be food safe. They may be used in the microwave and oven as long as you preheat the pottery with the oven beforehand. As with all fine handmade objects, hand washing is advised.
My hope is that you will use and enjoy pottery in your daily life."
The public is invited to visit the SMAC art gallery for Weiss's artist reception from 5-7 pm on Thursday, November 10. Light refreshments and live music will be provided. Regular Gallery hours are Monday-Friday, 8 am-12pm and 1-4:30 pm.
Southwest Minnesota Arts Council announces Gallery Exhibit and Reception featuring the pottery of 
**ADDED BONUS: From 5:30 - 6:30 PM at the Reception, enjoy