16 Hands swaps traditional open studios for centralized Potters Market
While 16 Hands has historically hosted self-guided studio tours, where visitors travel across the countryside to several artists’ studios, the spring 2026 market begins a new tradition by presenting a pottery market at a single, central location.
This spring, 16 Hands is coming together in an exciting new setting at Floyd’s Ecovillage. From Friday evening, May 1, through Sunday, May 3, the inaugural Floyd Potters Market will showcase all members of 16 Hands, guest artists, music, food, and live demonstrations in a relaxed central setting.
For more than two decades, 16 Hands has been a cornerstone of the folk craft landscape in Floyd County, drawing collectors and pottery lovers from across the Southeast and beyond. The members of 16 Hands represent a range of ceramic traditions and personal artistic journeys. Over the group’s history, the collective has grown and welcomed new voices, each enriching the community with distinct styles and techniques. Current members include Reida Sage, Wendy Wrenn Werstlein, Abby Reczek, Sarah McCarthy, Josh Manning, Hona Leigh Knudsen, Hanna Traynham, Ron Sutterer, Andrea Denniston, and Seth Guzovsky. From wheel-thrown functional ware, ceramic jewelry and sculptural ceramics that push creative boundaries, the work on display will reflect both traditional studio craft and contemporary innovation. Many of the potters maintain studio spaces year-round in the Floyd area and regularly contribute to the region’s thriving art scene.
While 16 Hands has historically hosted self-guided studio tours, where visitors travel across the countryside to several artists’ studios, the spring 2026 market begins a new tradition by presenting a pottery market at a single, central location. This new format is designed to highlight the diversity and depth of the collective’s work without requiring visitors to drive from studio to studio. All members and invited guests will be set up throughout the Ecovillage, creating an immersive marketplace that’s easier to navigate and fun to explore.
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The market’s opening evening, Friday, May 1, from 5-9 p.m., will also serve as a special fundraiser for Blue Mountain School, a local educational institution rooted in experiential learning and community engagement. This Friday night gathering invites both pottery lovers and supporters of arts education to mingle with artists and kick off the weekend in a spirit of generosity and connection.
After Friday’s evening kickoff, the market will continue on Saturday, May 2, from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m., offering a full day to explore, shop, and enjoy the celebration. The event concludes on Sunday, May 3, from noon until 4 p.m., providing a relaxed finale and one last chance to take home a beautiful handmade piece.
A favorite part of the 16 Hands Studio Tour is the inclusion of guest artists. These artists are well known in their craft field and add their own unique work to the tour experience. Julie Covington, a potter from the Weaverville, NC, is one of the invited guest artists. Covington creates beautiful tableware that can equally be cherished at home on an intimate dinner table or on the floor of an old pick-up truck. Her beautiful functional pottery will nestle comfortably into your life. Alysha Baier, a second invited guest, is a potter who lives in Atlanta, New York. Baier’s work employs multiple techniques that give rise to serene, landscape-infused imagery that evokes both nature and emotion. A flower bar will also be available so you can fill that Mother's Day Vase with fresh beautiful flowers.
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One of the highlights of the weekend will be the live clay demonstrations. Throughout the market, visitors are encouraged to watch potters at work, seeing firsthand how a lump of clay transforms into a vessel, bowl, mug, or sculptural form. Whether you’re a longtime admirer of pottery or a curious newcomer, these demos offer a closer look at the craft behind the finished pieces on display. Visitors will be able to talk directly with the potters, learn about their processes, and hear the stories that shape each piece. The Spring Market will also include live music from the Handmade Music School of Floyd. Known for its nurturing of local musicians and vibrant performances. The school’s contribution ensures that the event will sound as good as it looks.
Food and drink are key ingredients in any community gathering, and the 16 Hands Floyd Potters Market is no exception. Blue Mountain School will also be on site serving and selling a selection of snacks and beverages. With delicious fare and refreshments available throughout the weekend, visitors can enjoy from snacks and drinks without missing a beat.
Whether you’re searching for a stunning serving platter, a set of mugs that feel just right in your hands, or simply looking for that perfect Mother’s Day gift, the 16 Hands Spring Potters Market will offer something for everyone. It’s an opportunity to meet artists face-to-face, support local makers, and support local organizations.
Join 16 Hands for its Spring Potters Market on May 1-3. For the latest updates, follow @16hands on Facebook and Instagram or check online at 16hands.com.
