Monocacy Pottery

The process, the work, the artist

The unique variety of warm earth tones and ash deposits and flame patterns which you see on this pottery are a result of the wood-firing process by which this work was produced.  This traditional, labor intensive firing process begins by loading work into a large three-chamber wood kiln.  Once the kiln is loaded, wood is then fed into a firebox, which is stoked every 10 minutes for 24 hours until it reaches a temperature of 2,400° F.

John Thies has been producing wood-fired pottery since 1976.  Prior to this, he spent several years working in production potteries across the country.  Shortly after moving to Maryland, he and his wife started Monocacy Pottery and built a large 3-chamber wood kiln.  This kiln and the way in which it is fired, produces unique one-of-a-kind pottery.  This, along with the different glazes and slips which John uses bring out the natural beauty in this wood-fired work.

Monocacy Pottery is open by appointment only by calling (301) 898-3128, or by e-mailing at monocacypottery@comcast.net.  Situated north of Frederick Maryland along the scenic Monocacy River, the rustic yet inviting gallery is filled with functional, one-of-a-kind wood-fired pottery at reasonable prices.

John & Marsha Thies
11801 Hunt Club Road
Thurmont, MD  21788
(301) 898-3128
monocacypottery@comcast.net

Resume