In celebration of Earth Day I wanted to share with you the art of foraging for natural products used in pottery. From clay to glazes mother earth does nothing but give to us. It is good to be reminded that as renters of this planet, we need to respect the management of our air to our soil.

One of our favorite Potters here in Antigonish, Nova Scotia shows how the earth is more than a walking path or driveway.

Jeanmichel is originally from Montreal, Quebec, and moved here in 2021, in lockdown from Eastern Washington State with his wife and 2 kids, 6 and 8. Now living in Antigonish is creating and experimenting with the tools he has at his feet.

One of Jeanmichel’s hobbies is foraging natural products around him to use for pottery. He hopes to offer workshops at The Arts House taking students out into the environment and teaching his skills to those interested in the process.

“Ceramics from local materials. Foraged and processed by hand. Made in Antigonish, Nova Scotia, home of the Mi’kmaq people.”

Here is a quick review of the process. First, the rocks are collected and crushed into dirt is soaked in water to separate the sand and the pebbles from the clay product. Next, the clay dirt is sifted through several levels of sieves, to get a fine enough product to use for clay.

The byproducts of the sand and pebbles are used for creating unique glazes that can change colors depending on the temperature they are fired at in the kiln. Every time Jeanmichel opens the kiln it is a surprise. Once the testing is done with the batch of collected rocks he can then have a test sample to choose for his next project.

Jeanmichel enjoys the imperfections of the clay with the unknown

There is so much more to share about this form of art and how it brings you closer to the earth, but for now the awareness of the gift Mother Earth gives is something to celebrate!

To view more of Jeanmichel’s work, click this link to view his Instagram account: Jeanmichele Cote Pottery