This weekend, May 2 and 3, 2015, is Clay in May — one of the first signs of spring in Mineral Point.

The potters have been toiling away all winter, making vases and bowls and all sorts of ceramics.  They’ve unloaded their kilns and are ready to unveil their latest creations.

Here are the tour participants alphabetically by last name:

Joe and Christy Cole’s Windy Ridge Pottery, 3095 State Road 39, is a beautiful 5-minute drive out of town. Check out this youtube video about the Coles, the way they work together and their beautiful, functional products.

Bruce Howdle at Howdle Pottery, 225 Commerce Street, gives tours all the time, even when it’s not Clay in May. He will gladly tell you about whatever he’s working on, whether it’s a large installation or one of his famous pigs!  A trip to Mineral Point isn’t complete without a visit with Bruce.

Diana and Tom Johnston, at Brewery Pottery, 276 Shake Rag Street, have been busy loading and unloading their two kilns to get ready for Clay in May.  In their vast gallery — a must-see stop for all visitors — the pottery is just one of the many beautiful art pieces to admire.

Frank Polizzi at Mulberry Pottery, 14 Jail Alley, crafts stunning vases and vessels from clay he digs himself. Frank is very knowledgable about the science and history of his craft and has been a full-time potter for over 30 years. You’ll have a chance to tour his upstairs studio which is available for classes. Occasionally, Frank welcomes visitors to take off their shoes and socks and take part in a clay stomp.

The potters of Mineral Point really enjoy what they do. Come to Mineral Point this weekend, meet these happy potters, and take home a piece of art.

– Contributed by the Hays