Workshop studio |
The Workshop Studio is where the creative process begins and is the heartbeat of The Pottery Garden. The studio houses all the raw materials, including clay and glazes, Karl's wheel and an electric kiln. Thrown pieces are stored on the shelves of the Workshop Studio until they go to the next stage of production - firing, either in the electric kiln, the Raku kiln or the unique outdoor wood-fired kiln .
Here you can observe owner and potter Karl at work or have your own clay experience. Enjoy freely experimenting with clay in the studio or have a guided learning experience instructed by Karl himself. If you are pleased with your work, arrange to have it glazed, fired and shipped to you! |
outdoor wood-fired kiln
The outdoor wood-fired kiln is a one of its kind in The Virgin Islands and is a unique feature of The Pottery Garden experience. Visitors can watch live as pieces are fired using this ancient technique. Pieces fired in this kiln have special effects such as flashing (coloured effects on the surface of pieces created by the path of the flame), effects from reduction and effects from fly ash.
The kiln consists of two fire pits with a total of four stoking holes through which the kiln is feed with local wood. Pieces are carefully loaded into the kiln using wads or sea shells to pad and protect them from sticking. The temperature in the kiln is raised slowly to the mature temperature over at least a 24-hour period. |
The kiln is constructed of a homemade mixture based around a light-weight refractory cement capable of withstanding the high temperatures typical of a stone-ware firing (up to about 1,285 °C / 2,345 °F). The dome and base of the chimney of the kiln are cast in one form. The dome is covered in local stone and recycled materials including Mexican Terracotta tiles and glass bottles.
display gallery |
Finished pieces are showcased and sold at our charming display studio. Here you will find a wide variety of vases, bowls, mugs, jugs, platters, pendants, candle holders, lightshades and much more. Each piece is handmade, one of a kind and affordably priced.
You can see a sample of our pieces on the Pottery Gallery page. We take custom orders, large or small, to meet your specific home outfitting, décor, lighting, landscaping or other needs. Our outdoor wood kiln allows us to make extra large pieces. The display studio also houses a collection of underwater photographs in The Virgin Islands. You can enjoy a cool drink while you browse! |
The Garden offers a self-guided flora experience, featuring a diverse collection of labeled local fruit trees, shade trees, ornamental plants and flowers. Our Garden is home to butterflies, birds and the occasional iguana.
You can enjoy the vibrant colours, sights and cool breezes of the Garden while relaxing in the shade on one of the garden benches. We look forward to the garden continuing to grow and flourish. |
The garden |