When you see the sign for Shearwater Pottery, you wonder just what awaits you down that narrow tree-lined gravel road other than another car coming from the opposite direction.....
Well, there is a lot of "artistic action" going on at the family owned pottery established in 1928. Peter Anderson's family members continue to produce ceramics and hand thrown pottery that is sought by collectors worldwide. The property that makes up the pottery and family compound is inspirational to anyone with a love of nature and the outdoors. The coastal woodlands and views of the Ocean Springs Harbor, Biloxi Bay, and Deer Island have not changed since the 20's when the pottery was first established. I decided to stop by and watch some of the work in progress as the pottery was being made. There are two buildings that almost look like storage sheds from the road, one is where the pottery is decorated, the other is where the pottery is made and prepared for painting and glazing.
The men of Shearwater were busy creating ceramics and pottery the day I visited..
Local flora and fauna are the basis for many of the pieces of pottery that are created...including pelicans, seagulls, pine trees and palmetto bushes as well as fairy tale characters.
Utilitarian pottery, such as cups, bowls, plates and wine goblets in beautiful and unique glazes are treasured wedding gifts of local brides.
The building next door houses the painters of the pottery.....
I continue down the gravel road through the woods to arrive at the pottery showroom.
Finally, you get to view some of the finished pottery. Fairy tale creatures dance among swimming fish, flying birds, colorful cups, vases, bowls and tiny pirates, fishermen and farmers.
Shearwater Pottery is one place that has to be visited in Ocean Springs.......Just follow the gravel road through the woods and listen for the sounds of dancing pottery. They want you to take them home.......
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