Business Details
50 Years
experience
Handcrafted Functional Stoneware in Marlboro, VT
Matthew Tell Pottery was founded in 1976 by Matthew Tell, who began his journey with clay during his senior year in high school. Our studio specializes in functional stoneware crafted through traditional wood and gas firing techniques. Located in Marlboro, Vermont, our work is deeply influenced by the natural beauty of the Green Mountains and recent explorations in Alaska, which have expanded our palette of colors, textures, and forms. We prioritize the ancient tradition of functional vessels, creating pieces that integrate into daily life while reflecting the organic landscapes of our environment. Our wood kiln, built in 1993, allows the fire to shape each piece uniquely, embracing the unpredictability of the process.We participate in regional craft shows and offer studio workshops, fostering community engagement with ceramics. Our commitment to craftsmanship and innovation ensures each item is both utilitarian and artistically expressive. With over four decades of experience, we combine technical expertise with a deep respect for the medium. Our work has been featured in galleries and exhibitions, emphasizing the enduring relevance of handmade functional art. We welcome visitors by appointment to experience our creative process firsthand.
Services
Stoneware Production
Wood-Fired Pottery
Custom Ceramics
Studio Workshops
Art Exhibitions
Details
- Year established: 1976
Highlights and features
- We offer over 45 years of expertise in traditional pottery techniques.
- Our work reflects the natural beauty of Vermont and Alaska's landscapes.
- Each piece is uniquely shaped by the wood-firing process.
- We host workshops and participate in regional craft exhibitions.
- Our studio combines functional design with artistic innovation.
What people say
Beautiful natural glazes
Functional yet artistic
Unique wood-fired textures
Services
Stoneware Production
We create functional stoneware using traditional techniques. Our pieces are designed for daily use while maintaining artistic integrity. Each item is shaped by hand and fired in wood or gas kilns to achieve unique textures and colors.
Wood-Fired Pottery
Our wood-firing process allows flames and ash to naturally interact with pottery. This method produces one-of-a-kind surfaces that reflect the dynamic relationship between fire and clay during each 16-20 hour firing cycle.
Studio Workshops
We offer hands-on workshops for aspiring potters. Participants learn wheel-throwing, glazing, and firing techniques in our Marlboro studio. Workshops include access to our 100 cubic foot wood kiln for collaborative firings.
Art Exhibitions
Our work is showcased in regional craft exhibitions and galleries. We participate in Vermont Craft Council events and maintain an active presence at annual art fairs across New England.
Custom Ceramics
We create bespoke ceramic pieces tailored to client specifications. This includes unique dinnerware sets, decorative vessels, and functional art pieces incorporating personalized design elements.
People
Matthew Tell
Owner & Lead Potter
Matthew Tell has been crafting functional pottery since 1976. He studied ceramics at Marlboro College and built his wood kiln in 1993. His work reflects Vermont's landscapes and a commitment to traditional techniques.
Questions
What types of pottery do you create?
We specialize in functional stoneware vessels, including bowls, platters, vases, and serving pieces. Our work combines utilitarian design with artistic expression.
Can I visit your studio in Marlboro?
Studio visits are available by appointment only. Please contact us via email or phone to schedule a showing during regular business hours.
Do you offer pottery workshops?
Yes, we host wood-firing workshops where participants can glaze and fire their own pieces in our kiln. Workshops typically last two days with scheduled firing shifts.
Where can I see your work in person?
Our pottery appears at Vermont Craft Council events, regional art fairs, and the annual Wesleyan Potters sale. Check our website for current exhibition schedules.
What inspires your ceramic designs?
Our work reflects Vermont's Green Mountains and Alaskan landscapes. We incorporate earth-tone glazes and textures that mimic natural environments in functional forms.
