Pied Potter Hamelin

Pottery Demonstrations, Lectures and Workshops by Master Potter Rick Hamelin

Fun and Interactive Pottery Demonstration at Your Venue

Transform any space into a creative haven with our innovative clay forming demonstrations. Join Master Potter Rick,of Pied Potter Hamelin, as he introduces you to techniques that will bring out your inner potter. Watch in awe as he crafts a charming chicken, a whimsical teapot and even a mythical dragon on the potter's wheel. These workshops are designed to leave your venue perfectly spotless with no clay remnants left behind.

A Time to Spout Off - Teapots from Around the World - Ages: teens, adults

60 min. or 90 min. workshop (prices and details at the bottom of page)

Pottery Wheel Demonstration with Optional Hands-On Pinch Pot

This unique program brings together the art of pottery and the world of tea in a truly cultural experience. Join potter Rick Hamelin as we explore the rich history of teapots from various cultures around the globe. During this demonstration, he will guide you through the process of creating teapots inspired by the Middle East, the Orient, Europe, and the Americas. Watch as traditional Brown Betty teapots, elegant ring teapots and even teapots with a surprise animal motif come to life on the potter's wheel. But that's not all! During this session, you'll have the unique opportunity to pass from person to person a freshly made pot from the potter's wheel. Each participant will have the opportunity to experience clay by crafting their own pinch pot, a unique unfired cup formed by gently squeezing clay with your thumb and finger. It's an immersive experience and whether you're a pottery enthusiast, a tea lover, or simply curious about different cultures, this workshop is a wonderful journey of creativity.

Audience size: unlimited

Book Suggestion: The Tea Girl of Hummingbird Lane by Lisa See; The Meaning of Tea: A Tea Inspired Journey by Phil Cousineau

Venue requirements: Ramp or elevator for all workshops

•  Standard 15 amp outlet for the pottery wheel demonstration workshops
•  Chairs for the participants
•  I will bring everything else.

Amazing Magical Potter’s Wheel - Ages: 5+, teens, adults

60 min. or 90 min. workshop (prices and details at the bottom of page)

Pottery Wheel Demonstration with Optional Hands-On Pinch Pot

Captivating pottery wheel demonstration program, perfect for all ages and designed with families in mind. Explore creativity while discovering fascinating pottery techniques enriched by a touch of history. Master Potter Rick Hamelin will pass around a freshly made pot from the potter's wheel. But that's not all – each participant will have the opportunity to experience the clay by making their own pot, a unique unfired cup formed by gently squeezing clay with your thumb and finger. Join us for a family-friendly journey into the world of pottery and take home your unfired masterpiece, a tangible reminder of your artistic adventure!

Audience size: unlimited

Book Suggestion - children 5 and up: The Great Clay Adventure: Creative Hand-building Projects for Young Artists by Ellen Kong and Claire Mowbray Golding

Book Suggestion - teens and adults: Pinch Pottery: Functional, Modern Hand-building by Susan Halls; Ceramics for Beginners: Hand Building by Shay Amber

Venue requirements: Ramp or elevator for all workshops

•  A parent/guardian for children under the age of 8
•  Standard 15 amp outlet for the pottery wheel demonstration workshops
•  Chairs for the participants
•  I will bring everything else.

Dragon Sculpting - Ages: 5+, teens

60 min. or 90 min. workshop (prices and details at the bottom of page)

Short and Fun Pottery Wheel Demonstration

Welcome to our hands-on workshop with a short pottery wheel demonstration! This immersive experience is perfect for anyone looking to explore the art of working with clay. During the workshop, participants will have the opportunity to learn how to make a pot, a unique cup made from a ball of clay by pinching it with the thumb and finger. But the fun doesn't stop there! Master Potter Rick Hamelin will also teach you how to alter your pinch pot into a stunning unfired dragon using coils, pads and slabs. This workshop is all about creativity and you will leave with a beautiful and personalized dragon.

Audience size: up to 20 participants

Materials Fee: $2.50 per dragon made

Book Suggestion: 5+ Fantasy Characters: Easy-to-Follow Clay-Making Projects in Simple Steps by Bernadette Cuxart

Book Suggestion: Teen Fantasy Creatures in Clay: Techniques for Sculpting Dragons, Griffins and More by Emily Coleman

Venue requirements: Ramp or elevator for all workshops

•  A parent/guardian for children under the age of 8
•  Standard 15 amp outlet for the pottery wheel demonstration workshops
•  Tables and chairs for the participants - I will bring everything else.

Throwing Back, Massachusetts Pottery History - Ages: teens, adults

60 min. or 90 min. workshop (prices and details at the bottom of page)

Pottery Wheel Demonstration with Optional Hands-On Pinch Pot

This unique event is filled with tales of the unusual, the unknown and the unpredictable. Have you ever wondered about the Tufts and Cornell families? Or who could possibly be enjoying a cup of tea on the roof? And let's not forget the age-old question - is Boston truly the original Beantown? Join Master Potter Rick Hamelin as we delve into the rich pottery legacy of the Commonwealth in this fast-paced and exciting exploration. During our hands-on portion, you'll have the opportunity to experience the magic firsthand. Picture yourself passing from person to person a freshly made pot, feeling its texture. And that's not all - each participant will have the chance to experience the clay by making a pinch pot, a cup made by pinching the clay with their thumb and finger and then take home this unique unfired cup. Whether you're a pottery enthusiast, history lover, or simply looking for a fun and hands-on experience, this workshop is for you.

Audience size: unlimited

Book Suggestion: The Prophet by Kahil Gibran; Walden Pond by Thoreau; The Ballad of Cassandra Southwick poem by John Greenleaf Whittier; The Autobiography of Edith Guerre; Red Brick, Black Mountain, White Clay by Christopher Benfey

Venue requirements: Ramp or elevator for all workshops

•  Standard 15 amp outlet for the pottery wheel demonstration workshops
•  Chairs for the participants
•  I will bring everything else.

The Librarian and the Saturday Evening Girls, Molding Success One Pot at a Time - Ages: teens, adults  -  60 min. or 90 min. workshop (prices and details at the bottom of page)

Pottery Wheel Demonstration with Optional Hands-On Pinch Pot

Have you ever wondered about the fascinating history of the Paul Revere Pottery Company? Join Master Potter Rick Hamelin for a discussion about Edith Brown and Edith Guerre who established this studio in Boston during the early 1900s. Discover the legacy they left behind and learn about their techniques, materials and products in this captivating pottery wheel demonstration. To enhance your experience, we recommend checking out the historical fiction book, The Saturday Evening Girls by Jane Healey, which is based on the true story of this studio. You can also delve into the fascinating book, “An Independent Woman, Autobiography of Edith Guerrier by Edith Guerrier herself. This illustrated discussion will transportyou to the world of the SEG (Saturday Evening Girls) and the Paul Revere Pottery, giving you an insider's view of the creators and their masterpieces. But that's not all! The hands-on portion of the workshop allows you to get up close and personal with pottery making. You'll have the unique opportunity to pass from person to person a freshly made pot from the potter's wheel. Additionally, each participant will get to experience clay by making their own pinch pot, a unique unfired cup formed by pinching the clay with your thumb and finger. And the best part? You get to take your masterpiece home!

Audience size: unlimited

Book Suggestion: The Saturday Evening Girls by Jane Healey; An Independent Woman, The Autobiography of Edith Guerrier by Edith Guerrier

Venue requirements: Ramp or elevator for all workshops

•  Standard 15 amp outlet for the pottery wheel demonstration workshops
•  Chairs for the participants
•  I will bring everything else.

© 2009-26 Pied Potter Hamelin | All Rights Reserved | rick@americanredware.com | 413-436-7444 | Design Gariné Arakelian

School Programs: Language & Culture Exploration: Hands-on Pottery Wheel Demo and Optional Pinch Pot Workshop

All Languages and Cultures

60 min. or 90 min. workshop (prices and details at the bottom of page)

Delve into the fascinating world of languages and cultures with this engaging program. Immerse yourself in the art of pottery and uncover the rich history and techniques associated with various regions and eras. From French and Spanish to German and beyond, we cater to all languages and cultures at your request. With firsthand demonstrations, Master Potter Rick of Pied Potter Hamelin brings the art of pottery to life, showcasing the unique vocabulary, forms, and traditions of local potters. Experience the magic of pottery as you pass from person to person a freshly made pot, feeling its texture. Additionally, each person will experience the clay by making their own pinch pot, an unfired cup fashioned by gently pinching the clay with your thumb and finger. Take home your masterpiece as a proud reminder of your artistic adventure.

Audience size: unlimited

Venue requirements: Ramp or elevator for all workshops

•  Standard 15 amp outlet for the pottery wheel demonstration workshops - I will bring everything else.

Explore Careers in Pottery: Interactive School Program with Wheel-Thrown Pottery Demonstration & Optional Pinch Pot Workshop

Always Stuck in the Mud

60 min. or 90 min. workshop (prices and details below)

As a master potter, Rick of Pied Potter Hamelin will showcase his skills through a mesmerizing wheel-thrown pottery demonstration. Throughout the program, he will share his personal journey, highlighting the diverse career opportunities in today's market. From teaching to museum work and even science, he’s experienced it all! Get ready for a hands-on experience like no other. Each participant will have the opportunity to hold a freshly made pot from the potter's wheel, feeling its smooth texture. But that's not all - each person will experience the clay by making their own pinch pot, an unfired cup fashioned by pinching the clay with your thumb and finger. And the best part? Your unfired masterpiece will accompany you home, a tangible reminder of your pottery adventure.

Audience size: unlimited

Venue requirements: Ramp or elevator for all workshops

• Standard 15 amp outlet for the pottery wheel demonstration workshops  -  I will bring everything else.

School Programs: Ancient Pottery Experience for Students - Pottery Wheel Demonstration & Optional and Pinch Pot Workshop

Classical Greek and Roman Pottery

60 min. or 90 min. workshop (pieces and details at the bottom of page)

In this exciting class, students will have the opportunity to explore the fascinating world of ancient pottery. They will have a firsthand look at various types of pottery created on the wheel during different historical eras. They will have the chance to touch and examine a freshly made pot straight from the potter's wheel. As the pot rotates, they will be able to feel the texture and appreciate the craftsmanship involved in creating it. Each person will experience the clay by making their own pinch pot, an unfired cup fashioned by pinching the clay with your thumb and finger. The unfired pot can be taken home by the student. Don't miss out on this engaging and educational opportunity to discover the wonders of pottery-making.

Audience size: unlimited

Venue requirements: Ramp or elevator for all workshops

• Standard 15 amp outlet for the pottery wheel demonstration workshops  -  I will bring everything else.

Engaging and Educational Festival Programs

And One Good Turn Deserves Another - Open Air Demonstration

60 min. or 90 min. workshop (prices and details at the bottom of page)

Introducing our Festival Programs Open Air Demonstration by Master Potter Rick of Pied Potter Hamelin! This informal performance is designed to enchant the strolling audience with a showcase of pots and animals that perfectly complement the fair theme. Whether it's a museum special event, art festival, or agricultural fair, his programs blend multiculturalism, heritage, geology, history, and creativity into a captivating experience. Join us as we bring joy and education to diverse groups attending historic day and town anniversary celebrations.

Audience size: unlimited

Venue requirements: Ramp or elevator for all workshops

• Standard 15 amp outlet for the pottery wheel demonstration workshops  -  I will bring everything else.

All About Poets and Potters (ages: teens, adults)

60 min. or 90 min. workshop (prices and details at the bottom of page)

Pottery Wheel Demonstration with Optional Hands-On Pinch Pot

Inspired by the timeless works of Massachusetts' esteemed poets like Longfellow, Whitman, Thoreau, and Gibran, this one-hour program intertwines the craft of pottery with their poetic verses. Marvel at the mesmerizing process of throwing on the pottery wheel as Master Potter Rick of Pied Potter Hamelin shares historical connections between Massachusetts potters and these literary greats. But the experience doesn't end there. Dive into the tactile wonder of clay by passing around a freshly made pot from the potter's wheel. Additionally, each person will experience the clay by making their own pinch pot, an unfired cup fashioned by gently pinching the clay with your thumb and finger. And the best part? Your unfired masterpiece will accompany you home, a tangible reminder of your pottery adventure.

Audience size: unlimited

Book Suggestion: The Prophet by Kahil Gibran; Walden Pond by Thoreau; The Ballad of Cassandra Southwick poem by John Greenleaf Whittier; The Autobiography of Edith Guerre by Edith Guerre; Red Brick, Black Mountain, White Clay by Christopher Benfey

Appropriate For: January - National Mentoring Month; March - Irish American Heritage Month, Women’s History Month,Youth Art Month; May - Jewish American Heritage Month; June - LGBT Pride Month; October - LGBT History Month; National Arts and Humanities Month

Venue requirements: Ramp or elevator for all workshops

•  Standard 15 amp outlet for the pottery wheel demonstration workshops
•  Chairs for the participants
•  I will bring everything else.

Creativity Builds a Better World - Ages: 5+, teens, adults

60 min. or 90 min. workshop (prices and details at the bottom of page)

Pottery Wheel Demonstration with Optional Hands-On Pinch Pot

In this exciting program, we aim to connect communities through the art of clay. Join Master Potter Rick Hamelin and explore how a better world can be built from this versatile material. During the pottery wheel demonstration, we will introduce the basic concepts of pressure and motion, using simple forms to create a variety of projects. Piece by piece, we will bring pots and creatures to life while sharing stories that celebrate and connect our unique experiences. Unearthing the magic of clay, we will witness how this tiny speck can be transformed into beauty, sturdy structures, or even serve as a vessel for a delicious meal. But the fun doesn't stop there! Participants will have the opportunity to handle a freshly made pot straight from the potter's wheel. Additionally, each person will experience the clay by making their own pinch pot, a cup made by pinching the clay with their thumb and finger. Join us for an unforgettable experience that bridges communities and celebrates our experiences.

Audience size: unlimited

Book Suggestion - children 5 and up: The Little Clay Pot by Cheryl Kincaid; Claymates by Devorah Petty

Book Suggestion - children 10 and up: The Clay Marble by Minfong Ho; Dave the Potter: Artist, Poet, Slave by Laban Carrick Hill and Bryan Collier

Book Suggestion - adults: Red Brick, Black Mountain, White Clay by Christopher Benfry; The Biography of Edith Guerre by Edith Guerre; The Saturday Evening Girls by Jane Healey

Appropriate For: March - Youth Art Month; October - National Arts and Humanities Month

Venue requirements: Ramp or elevator for all workshops

•  A parent/guardian for children under the age of 8
•  Standard 15 amp outlet for the pottery wheel demonstration workshops
•  Chairs for the participants
•  I will bring everything else.

Pricing and Details for Pottery Wheel Demonstration with Optional Hands-On Pinch Pottery Workshops

60 min. Pottery Wheel Demo w/hands-on pinch pot (+30 min. set-up/30 min. clean up)

Fee: $325 +$1/pinch pot per participant (cost of materials), plus mileage charge (see below).

Materials Fee for “Dragon Sculpting”: $2.50 per dragon only for the “Dragon Sculpting” workshop

90 min. Pottery Wheel Demo w/hands-on pinch pot, passing wet bowl around the audience and touching pot on wheel (+30 min. set-up/30 min. clean up)

Fee: $350 +$1/pinch pot per participant (cost of materials), plus mileage charge (see below).

Materials Fee for “Dragon Sculpting”: $2.50 per dragon only for the “Dragon Sculpting” workshop

Audience size: unlimited

Audience size for “Dragon Sculpting”: up to 20 participants

Travel fee: $0.70/mile round trip. Mileage discounts are available for multiple workshops in the same area. If we can book you on the same day with another venue, within 15 miles from your location, we will split the fee between the two venues. Travel fee is capped at $125 for most programs.

Discounts: available for scheduling 2 or more workshops on the same day at the same location.

Mr. Hamelin will provide all the materials and the venue only pays for the materials used.

Venue requirements:

• Parking near the entrance door, ramp or elevator are necessary for all workshops.
• The venue representative will confirm the number of participants 3 days prior to the event for the hands-on workshops.
• Standard 15 amp outlet is necessary for the pottery wheel demonstrations.
• I will bring everything else.

  Patriots and Potters - Ages: teens, adults

60 min. or 90 min. workshop (prices and details at the bottom of page)

New England’s Pottery History - Wheel Demonstration with Optional Hands-On Pinch Pot

Delve into the captivating stories of brave potters who fought valiantly during the Revolutionary War as demonstrated by Master Potter Rick Hamelin. During our hands-on portion you'll have the opportunity to experience the magic firsthand! We’ll be passing around from person to person a freshly made pot. But wait, there’s more! Each participant will have the chance to experience the clay and create their own pot. Using the simple technique of pinching clay between your thumb and finger, you'll craft a unique unfired cup which you get to take home.

Audience size: unlimited

Venue requirements: Ramp or elevator for all workshops

•  Standard 15 amp outlet for the pottery wheel demonstration workshops
•  Chairs for the participants
•  I will bring everything else.

Rick’s background

• Pied Potter Hamelin, (AmericanRedware.com) Pottery Studio Owner, Warren, MA
• Old Sturbridge Village, Interpreter Specialist/Master Potter, Sturbridge, MA
• Massachusetts Cultural Council Keepers of Tradition Award - The keepers of tradition are artists recognized as outstanding practitioners of craft, music, dance and sacred arts.
• Massachusetts Cultural Council “Gold Star Award” for school programs
• Recipient of over 1000 Massachusetts Cultural Council, Local Grant awards since 1985
• Early American Life Magazine “Traditional Artisan” recognition for over 20 years.
• National Park Service grant co-recipient with Boston Archaeology and Royal House Museum. Redware used in many museums including Fort Ticonderoga, Billings Farm Museum.

Developed and instituted curriculum at:

• PiedPotter.com since 1985 - Lectures, hands-on workshops and pottery demonstrations at public venues, libraries, senior centers, historical societies, museums and schools
• Fitchburg Art Museum, Fitchburg, MA - Youth Instructor
• Worcester Center for Crafts, Worcester, MA - Youth Instructor
• Summer’s World Center for the Arts, Worcester, MA - Instructor and Pottery Studio Manager

All workshops are also listed with the Massachusetts Libraries Board of Library Commissioners (MBLC) at https://mblc.state.ma.us/directories/performers/programs.php