Annual six-week event features a national invitational exhibition, a holiday market of locally made ceramics, and a ticketed preview party on November 12
Baltimore, MD – Baltimore Clayworks invites the public to experience Winterfest 2026, its signature holiday ceramics celebration, running November 13 through December 23, 2026, at its Mt. Washington campus. Bringing together a nationally recognized invitational exhibition and a curated holiday market featuring local artists, Winterfest offers collectors, ceramics enthusiasts, and holiday shoppers an opportunity to discover exceptional contemporary pottery and handmade gifts throughout the season.
Winterfest celebrates the diversity and craftsmanship of contemporary ceramics while highlighting the artists who contribute to Baltimore Clayworks’ vibrant creative community. From functional vessels and decorative objects to unique holiday gifts, the six-week event offers visitors an opportunity to explore work by established artists from across the country alongside local artists like the residents and fellows, teaching artists, and more who shape Baltimore Clayworks’ studios and programs.
National Invitational Exhibition Highlights 17 Contemporary Ceramic Artists
At the heart of Winterfest 2026 is the national invitational exhibition, featuring work by 17 artists whose distinct perspectives, techniques, and approaches to functional ceramics reflect the breadth of contemporary practice. The exhibition brings together artists from across the United States, offering visitors an opportunity to experience a range of forms, surfaces, and artistic approaches in one setting.
Participating Artists
Sara Ballek (IL), Milo Berezin (PA), Ray Brown (MS), Marissa Childers (OK), Mike Gesiakowski (MO), Seth Green (IL), Tom Jaszczak (MN), Peter Karner (VA), Margaret Kinkeade (MO), Adam Lefebvre (WI), Anika Major (WA), Polina Miller (VA), Ali Schorman (AZ), Brad Schwieger (OH), Sam Scott (WA), and Kate Waltman (NC).
Winterfest Holiday Market Showcases Baltimore’s Ceramic Artists
Complementing the national exhibition, the Winterfest Holiday Market features handmade work by Baltimore Clayworks’ local associated artists. Visitors can browse a curated selection of functional pottery, decorative ceramics, ornaments, and one-of-a-kind gifts while supporting the artists who make Baltimore Clayworks a center for ceramic arts and education.
The market offers an opportunity to find distinctive, artist-made pieces for holiday giving while investing directly in the creative community. Together, the exhibition and market connect nationally recognized ceramic practices with the local artists and traditions that make Baltimore’s ceramics scene unique.
Preview Party Offers First Access to Winterfest
The Winterfest Preview Party takes place Thursday, November 12, from 6:30 to 8:30 pm, offering guests an exclusive first look at the exhibition and holiday market before they open to the public. Attendees can explore the galleries, meet fellow ceramics artists and enthusiasts, and shop both the national exhibition and local market ahead of the public opening. All purchases are available for same-day pickup, allowing guests to take home their selected works that evening. Admission to the Preview Party is ticketed.
Featured artist: Ali Schorman