Wheeling, West Virginia, has long been a city shaped by its makers—those who mold, craft, and create. Over the years, a thriving ceramics community has taken root here, drawing artists, collectors, and admirers who share a love for the transformative power of clay. Whether it’s seasoned potters shaping their next masterpiece or curious newcomers experiencing ceramics for the first time, it’s clear that Wheeling is embracing the art of clay like never before.
That passion is coming to life in Ceramics Take Over Wheeling, a citywide, four-day celebration of ceramics, creativity, and community, returning for its third year from February 20–23, 2025. This event will bring together local talent, nationally recognized ceramicists, and art lovers for a packed schedule of exhibitions, artist talks, live demos, hands-on workshops, and social gatherings across Wheeling’s arts and cultural spaces.
The Clay Scene in Wheeling
Wheeling’s ceramics community is growing, and it’s not just about the artists—it’s about the people who love, support, and appreciate handmade pottery. Once a quiet niche, ceramics in Wheeling is now a flourishing movement with local galleries showcasing pottery, studios offering classes, and makers selling their creations at markets and pop-up events. There’s a deep appreciation for the process, the craftsmanship, and the stories behind each piece.
Ceramics Take Over Wheeling is proof of how much this art form has taken hold. With a lineup that welcomes established professionals and first-time admirers alike, this event creates a space for people to engage with the world of ceramics in ways they may have never experienced before. From watching a lump of clay take shape on a wheel to hearing artists share what inspires their work, the weekend is all about discovering the beauty and excitement of ceramic art.
Event Highlights
This year’s Ceramics Take Over Wheeling is set to be the biggest yet, featuring:
•Nine exhibition openings across Wheeling, showcasing local, national, and student ceramic artists.
•Live demonstrations & workshops with renowned ceramicists like Sunshine Cobb, George Rodriguez, and Rebecca Harvey, giving attendees a firsthand look at their process.
•The 3rd Annual Earth & Fire National Exhibition, where stunning juried works from across the country will compete for $7,000 in cash prizes.
•Intercollegiate Ceramics Exhibition, spotlighting the next generation of ceramic artists from universities nationwide.
•Meet-the-Artist cocktail receptions, where attendees can connect with the creative minds behind the work.
•The fan-favorite Pottery Throwdown, a high-energy challenge where artists test their skills in a fast-paced, creative showdown.
Whether you’re a longtime ceramics collector, a casual art lover, or someone who’s just curious about what makes this medium so captivating, this event is for you. No background in pottery is needed—just a sense of curiosity and an appreciation for creativity.
Be Part of the Celebration
There’s nothing quite like the energy of a room filled with art, conversation, and people who love what they do. Ceramics Take Over Wheeling is more than just an event—it’s an experience, a gathering, and a celebration of what’s possible when creativity and community come together.
With so many incredible artists, exhibitions, and interactive opportunities, this is a weekend you won’t want to miss.
For full event details, visit:
www.ceramicstakeoverwheeling.com
Make your plans, bring a friend, and come see why ceramics are shaping the future of Wheeling’s creative scene!
