On May 17–18, 2025, Baltimore Clayworks had the honor of welcoming ceramic legend Mary Barringer for her Visiting Artist Workshop, “Build It… and Then?” Artists, educators, and clay enthusiasts gathered in our studio for two full days of exploration, discussion, and surface experimentation with one of the field’s most respected voices.
With over 50 years of experience in clay, Mary brought not only technical expertise but a profound sense of curiosity, humility, and humor. Known for her richly textured surfaces and work that echoes ancient tools or timeworn stones, Mary guided participants through the often-dreaded, but absolutely essential, part of the ceramic process – finishing the form.
For many of us, it’s the tactile joy of shaping wet clay that pulls us into the medium. The moment of completion is often where we pause and ask ourselves, “Now what?” Mary’s workshop provided some thoughtful, surprising, and practical answers to that question.
Over the course of the weekend, participants were invited to shift their mindset – to view glazing and surfacing not as separate from building, but as a continuation of that same creative conversation. From playful slip applications to textural treatments, every activity Mary led encouraged attendees to see the surface as an opportunity, not a challenge.
Workshop attendees came equipped with leather-hard pieces, open sketchbooks, and a wide variety of tools, ready to experiment. With warmth and clarity, Mary led discussions about ceramic history, shared inspirations from her own artistic journey, and introduced techniques that could be adapted to any firing method. The result was a weekend that felt not only educational but truly energizing.
Rebecca Morton shared that, “I’ve admired Mary for years… It was an honor to meet her and spend time with her.”
For those who were unable to attend the workshop, Mary’s virtual artist talk earlier in the spring offered a glimpse into her process and philosophy. Her deep respect for clay’s history, and her belief in every artist’s capacity for meaningful exploration, left a lasting impression on all who tuned in.
To everyone who joined us: thank you for bringing your curiosity and creative spirit. And to Mary – thank you for your generosity, wisdom, and presence.
