Discovering the Art in Clay: Mark Poole and Orchard View Pottery

The exploration of the Washington County, Maryland Pottery Trail by the South Mountain Journal brings us to Mark Poole and Orchard View Pottery

You might imagine simple clay pots or ceramic dishes when you think of pottery. But for Mark Poole, pottery is an art form, a means of self-expression, a way to connect with the natural world and to connect with you. Mark has transformed his passion into a thriving business, Orchard View Pottery, in the heart of Smithsburg, Maryland.

Mark Poole: A Potter with a Passion

Mark's journey into pottery began with a fascination for the tactile nature of clay and its transformative properties. His dedication and talent have shaped Orchard View Pottery into a celebrated studio known for its unique Raku pottery and stoneware pieces.

His specialties are: raku and stoneware, decorative and functional pottery. Mark also wields his craft to create beautiful lamps, bowl, vases, and table settings. That once seen cannot be forgotten - the simple approach to beauty, color, and form.

Mark's work stands out for his distinctive style and use of raku and stoneware techniques. These two approaches result in pieces that are extraordinary, functional, and works of art. Whether it's a mug for your morning coffee or a beautifully glazed jar for your kitchen counter, Mark's creations bring a touch of elegance and uniqueness to everyday objects.

Inspiration Behind the Creations

Mark draws inspiration from the world around him. The serene landscapes of Maryland and the changing seasons seem to reflect in his work’s color palette and textures. His pottery pieces are stories molded by careful hands, narrating the tale of their creator's connection with nature, the clay and the art.

Quality Craftsmanship and a Lifetime of Satisfaction

The legacy of Mark's work lies in its quality. Each piece is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring aesthetic appeal and durability. Customers frequently praise the craftsmanship as well as the beauty of Orchard View Pottery. Their testimonials and continuous support attest to the exceptional quality of Mark's work.

Mark Poole's Orchard View Pottery illuminates the intersection of art, functionality, and nature. Every piece is a testament to Mark's passion for pottery and his mastery of the craft. It's not just pottery; it's pottery with a purpose.

Nestled in the Appalachian foothills that make up the southwestern corridor of South Mountain, Orchard View Pottery is one of 10 stops along the Washington County, Maryland Pottery Trail studio trail. Touring the studios along the trail is a delightful way to meet and enjoy ten different artists, their styles, and their approaches to pottery. “When an artist creates in collaboration with the spirit of their location, it becomes a treasure of a lifetime,” says Betsy De Vore, Director of Marketing for Visit Hagerstown and Washington County Convention and Visitors Bureau.

Learn More About Orchard View Pottery

Orchard View Pottery isn't just a pottery studio; it's a testament to Mark Poole's dedication to his craft and commitment to creating beautiful, high-quality pottery 4. To experience the magic of Mark's work, visit the Orchard View Pottery social media or the studio in Smithsburg, Maryland:

Orchard View Pottery (call to visit)

Instagram: @orchard.view.pottery

Facebook: @orchard.view.pottery

Phone: 443-621-1070

Address: 23319 Barth Spring Lane, Smithsburg, MD 21783.

 
John Canan

Photographer, Storyteller

https://www.mrm.eco
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