On May 3rd, 2025, the sun broke through the spring clouds just in time to shine on one of the most vibrant and joyful celebrations of the year: Baltimore Clayworks’ 45th Anniversary Garden Party Gala and Earthenworks Community Day. Held on the grounds of our Mount Washington campus, this special day served as both a heartfelt tribute to our rich legacy in ceramics and a dynamic affirmation of our mission to bring clay to all.
The afternoon kicked off with our Garden Party Gala and Fundraiser, an elegant affair that welcomed longtime supporters, community leaders, artists, and new friends alike. Surrounded by our new blooming Sacred Place Garden and the hum of live music in the Gallery, guests enjoyed locally sourced food and refreshments, garden tours, and interactive art activities that brought out the creative spark in everyone. The silent auction was a standout moment, featuring one-of-a-kind ceramic pieces donated by celebrated artists from our community, it offered guests a chance to take home a bit of Baltimore Clayworks magic while supporting our mission.
Funds raised from the event will help us provide scholarships, expand residency opportunities for emerging and established artists, and sustain meaningful partnerships that bring ceramic arts to underserved communities. Every dollar brings us closer to a future where art and access walk hand-in-hand.
During our celebration, we took time to honor the remarkable individuals whose dedication, service, and creativity have left a lasting mark on Baltimore Clayworks. Félix Hernández was recognized for his passionate contributions to the design and implementation of our Sacred Place Garden and for his years of generous technical support and volunteer service. Claudia Salzberg, our Board President, was honored for her leadership and extraordinary effort in preserving the history of Baltimore Clayworks through the Digital Maryland Project, working alongside staff to archive decades of photos, contracts, and documents. Tracy Brauner was celebrated for logging the most volunteer hours this year and for her creative role in shaping our marketing – most notably, designing our 45th Anniversary logo. We also recognized Barbara Donohoe for her unmatched consistency in volunteering to refresh our studios between classes – a quiet but essential contribution that keeps our programs thriving.
One of the most heartfelt moments of the event was the recognition of Samuel Wallace, who received a certificate of recognition from the Mayor of Baltimore City for 35 years of devoted service, and a Governor’s Citation presented by the Maryland State Arts Council’s Ryan Koons, honoring Sam’s vital work in preserving and teaching the Jamaican Coil Building technique. Each honoree reflects the heart and soul of our organization – proof that Baltimore Clayworks thrives because of the incredible people who shape it every day.
As the gala wound down, our Earthenworks Community Day came alive. From 2:00 – 4:00 pm, our outdoor spaces were filled with families, neighbors, and new visitors of all ages, eager to explore the world of clay through hands-on activities.
Children and adults alike experimented with hand-building techniques while creating their Garden Globes, guided by our resident artists and teaching staff. Live demonstrations captured imaginations, while free sweet treats added to the festive atmosphere. From joyful clay-covered hands to wide-eyed awe at a spinning pot, the afternoon was a reminder of the universal joy and accessibility of working with clay.
What made Earthenworks truly special was the way it embodied our core values: inclusion, creativity, and accessibility. It was not just an event – it was a celebration of our belief that the ceramic arts should be available to everyone, regardless of age, background, or experience.
As we mark 45 years of Baltimore Clayworks, we do so with deep gratitude for the artists who founded us, for the students who have filled our classrooms, and for the community that continues to shape our story.
“We are proud to offer these two special events this spring,” said Claire Carberry, Director of Development. “The Garden Party Gala helps sustain our mission financially, while Earthenorks Community Day invites everyone to experience the transformative power of ceramic arts, firsthand.”
Here’s to the next 45 years. 🌸
Images courtesy of Joe Bissett, Harry Connolly and Larry Canner
