Business Details
Handmade Ceramic Pottery Studio in Florida
Pottery Boys Clay Studios is a collaborative ceramic art studio founded by Glenn Woods and Keith Herbrand, two artisans dedicated to creating handmade functional and decorative pottery. Our work combines traditional techniques with innovative glazing methods, using fine porcelain and white stoneware to craft one-of-a-kind pieces. Each item is meticulously formed on the wheel or by hand, then finished with either gloss or matte crystalline glazes that produce unique patterns through natural crystal formation. We specialize in altered, carved, and textured forms inspired by nature, including gourd-like vessels, leaf motifs, and organic textures.Our pottery is available through juried art fairs across the Midwest and Florida, as well as our online store. With decades of combined experience in ceramics and business management, we maintain a commitment to quality craftsmanship and customer satisfaction. Our studio hosts annual events like the Tampa Tour de Clay, showcasing collaborative works with guest artists. We prioritize direct engagement with collectors and enthusiasts, offering both in-person and virtual access to our collections.
Services
Handmade Pottery
Matte Crystalline Glazes
Gloss Crystalline Glazes
Lidded Jars
Large Handbuilt Forms
Highlights and features
- We combine 40+ years of ceramic expertise with innovative glazing techniques.
- Our work features patented crystalline glaze processes for unique visual effects.
- We offer direct access to artists through studio visits and art fair events.
- Our pieces incorporate sustainable, nature-inspired designs and materials.
- We maintain strict quality control through all production stages.
Services
Handmade Pottery
Each piece begins as porcelain or stoneware formed on the wheel or by hand. Artists alter shapes through carving, piercing, and beading techniques. Natural elements like leaves and gourds inspire organic forms. The process requires precise control during shaping and glazing stages to maintain structural integrity while achieving artistic vision.
Matte Crystalline Glazes
Specialized matte glazes produce subtle color variations and small crystal formations. The process involves controlled cooling cycles to develop silky surfaces with cascading crystal patterns. These finishes complement decorative pieces and hybrid functional/decorative items through their understated elegance.
Gloss Crystalline Glazes
High-gloss glazes create vibrant color ranges with prominent zinc silicate crystal formations. The reflective surfaces enhance visual depth in vases, bottles, and serving pieces. Achieving consistent crystal growth requires precise kiln temperature management during extended cooling periods.
Lidded Jars
Functional jars feature precisely fitted lids with decorative elements. Available in various sizes for storage or display purposes. Some pieces incorporate urn-like designs for holding ashes, combining practicality with memorial significance through personalized shaping and surface treatments.
Large Handbuilt Forms
Over-sized vessels combine slab construction and wheel-thrown components. The 'dancing ladies' series features dramatic curves and flowing lines. These statement pieces require advanced structural engineering to maintain balance while achieving artistic proportions that exceed standard pottery dimensions.
People
Glenn Woods
Primary Artist
Glenn creates porcelain pottery blending functional and decorative elements. He uses wheel-throwing combined with alteration techniques like paddling and piercing. His nature-inspired designs incorporate patterns influenced by Amish quilting traditions and organic forms like leaves and gourds.
Keith Herbrand
Potter and Business Manager
Keith manages business operations while contributing to production through glaze mixing and kiln loading. He creates functional slab pieces and refines throwing techniques. His business degree and retail experience ensure operational efficiency while maintaining active involvement in ceramic production.
Questions
What types of pottery do you create?
We produce functional and decorative pieces using porcelain and stoneware. Our collection includes vases, jars, serving pieces, and sculptural works featuring crystalline glazes and nature-inspired designs.
Where can I purchase your pottery?
Our best selection appears at Midwest and Florida art fairs. You can also shop online through our virtual store or arrange studio visits by appointment in Palm Harbor, Florida.
Do you offer custom pottery commissions?
We can create special memorial urns or customized pieces with advanced planning. Contact us through our website to discuss specific design requirements and production timelines.
What makes crystalline glazes unique?
Crystalline glazes form visible zinc silicate crystals during slow cooling. These patterns develop organically, making each piece distinct. The process requires precise temperature control to achieve desired crystal growth.
Are your pieces food-safe?
Functional items with gloss crystalline glazes are food-safe when properly cared for. Avoid sudden temperature changes and use gentle cleaning methods to maintain glaze integrity.
How do art fair purchases work?
Visit our scheduled art fairs for in-person selection. If purchasing at events, we coordinate shipping or local pickup options. Check our website for upcoming fair locations and dates.
