By Kate Bartlett
Hog Shed Studio Pottery will host their Holiday Open Studio on Saturday and Sunday November 2-3rd from 10am-5pm at their location at 8420 Maples Road (Cr #13) in Otto, NY. Elliott and Michael Hutten have been creating pottery on their property here for over 40 years, nestled in the beautiful rolling hills of Amish Country in Cattaraugus County.
Elliott has dedicated herself to creating pottery as her primary employment since the 1982. She describes the process as rewarding and therapeutic, using her hands to create original work from clay. “Here in my studio, I can sit quietly at the potter’s wheel, shaping clay into a bowl or mug, knowing that it will eventually find its way into someone’s home. It is a simple thing, but it brings me joy to know that my customers enjoy using these pieces. Somehow, a little piece of me goes out into the world along with my work!”
Over the past 40 years, Elliott has developed a distinctive style that her return customers have grown to love, each piece handmade and unique. The open studio provides an intimate opportunity for customers to come inside the studio, visit with Elliott and learn about her craft.
The delightful workshop on their property in Otto houses Elliott’s studio, along with the beautifully designed showroom of handcrafted stoneware pottery. It’s simply beautiful in any season, but November is a great time to visit. Crisp mornings in between fall and winter, with the smell of frost in the air makes the warmth of her studio all the more inviting. From dinnerware, casserole dishes, mugs and cups to ornaments and vases, there is something for everyone in this gallery on the farm. All functional pieces are lead-free, along with dishwasher, oven and microwave safe.
Elliott finds great satisfaction in creating pieces for everyday enjoyment, and loves seeing repeat customers. “I’ve had many people return over the years to tell me how much someone else has loved their gift of pottery. That gives me great personal satisfaction.”
Michael describes his wife’s pottery as well-crafted and distinct. “Elliott devotes time and dedication to each piece, working by hand until each piece is up to her standards.” The studio boasts a wide selection of functional stoneware and wood-fired pottery as well as a limited number of seasonal ornamental pieces, including festive holiday trees, pumpkins and ornaments. All make wonderful gifts or additions to add to any personal collection.
While it may seem simple, the production process is quite labor intensive and time consuming. From clay to table can take several weeks. Each piece is fired in the kiln twice, with a glazing process in between. Elliott mixes her own glazes, and personally applies each coat. As a former oil painter, she especially appreciates the glazing process. “I believe that my brushwork is what makes my work unique.” The final firing reaches 2400 degrees Fahrenheit, resulting in a vitrified, nonporous, high-quality finished product. All of her pieces are lead-free and 100% safe for use with food.
While Elliott remains passionate about her craft, she has begun to phase into semi-retirement as she no longer participates in art shows nor accepts special orders. The open studio provides customers the unique opportunity to purchase Elliott’s work in a relaxed holiday setting.
Elliott and Michael invite everyone to their open studio on Saturday, November 2nd and Sunday, November 3rd from 10am-5pm. For more information call 716-244-2967 visit www.hogshedpottery.com and follow on Facebook. If you are unable to make the Open Studio event, Hog Shed Studio Pottery is open by appointment or by chance. Look for their “open” flag at the roadside.
Continuation: Hog Shed Studio Pottery will host their Holiday Open Studio on Saturday and Sunday November 2-3rd from 10am-5pm at their location at 8420 Maples Road (Cr #13) in Otto, NY. Elliott and Michael Hutten have been creating pottery on their property here for over 40 years, nestled in the beautiful rolling hills of Amish Country in Cattaraugus County.