About

The Process

The Product

Pottery produced at Church Street Pottery is food safe, microwave safe, and dishwasher safe.

The People

Jeffrey Willemsen -- Jeff's full time avocation is creating low-cost, hand-made functional pottery which he hopes brings the owner a satisfying visual and rewarding user experience. Jeff graduated from Cornell College in Mt. Vernon, Iowa, where he majored in Art and Chemistry, studying ceramics with Professor Doug Hanson. His passion for pottery was initially ignited during a study abroad trip to Mexico. Jeff primarily makes simple pots intended for preparing and sharing food utilizing a potter's wheel, and he takes advantage of his chemistry background to create unique glaze formulas. His inspiration to produce functional, nature-inspired pottery comes from the strong influence of Bernard Leach, Clary Illian, and Doug Hanson. Jeff operates his home studio on Church Street in the Gaiety Hill historic neighborhood.