
Who We Are
The Ottawa Guild of Potters (OGP) is a vibrant and active group of potters in the Ottawa region. Our guild membership is comprised of new potters, experienced and professional potters, students and hobbyists, and people of all ages and backgrounds whose passion is clay.
Our members actively participate in sales and exhibitions, along with community-focused events that support local charities. We also offer special workshops led by experienced practitioners, covering various aspects of the craft.
Our monthly meetings feature presentations on a wide range of topics, updates on guild activities, and a welcoming space for members to meet, mingle, and share their experiences.
Our Mandate
- Encourage the growth and development of pottery and maintain a high standard of artistic expression and craftsmanship
- Act as a medium for the exchange of ideas and technical information
- Organize and promote pottery exhibitions, demonstrations, and workshops
- Promote awareness and appreciation of the ceramic arts to the general public
- Educate the public and its membership about the artistry, technology, and history of the clay arts.
Member Gallery
The Ottawa Guild of Potters is a community of ceramic artists sharing their craft and unique work.
Become a Member
For more than 50 years, the Ottawa Guild of Potters has connected clay enthusiasts of all levels and interests. Membership is open to anyone interested in the clay arts.
We welcome you to join our community of clay enthusiasts!
Enjoy these benefits of membership:
Education
- Digital access to our OGP group subscription to Ceramic Arts Network, providing access to information, videos and publications for endless inspiration and information
- Guest speakers at monthly meetings, sharing topics of interest
- Workshop opportunities on various aspects of pottery, taught by experienced potters of local, national or international status
- Bursary opportunities to assist in attending clay conferences
- Benefit from expert critique of your work, at sales and exhibitions
Sales & Exhibitions
- Opportunity to sell your work twice a year at the spring and holiday guild sales, in the beautiful Horticulture Building (Lansdowne Park)
- Opportunity to showcase your work in guild exhibitions, both juried and non-juried
Marketing & Promotion
- Opportunity to feature your work in guild Instagram and Facebook social platforms
- Benefit from guild social media campaigns promoting our sales and events
Networking
- Meet with knowledgeable and friendly members at monthly meetings
- Access a strong knowledge base offering support, guidance, and offers on many topics related to ceramics via the guild discussion forum and through our private Members’ Facebook group
- Opportunity to share notices and invitations to openings, sales, fairs, and events you are participating in amongst our membership, using the guild discussion forum, Facebook and Instagram



Affiliations
The Ottawa Guild of Potters is proud to partner with organizations that share our mission and offer great opportunities to our members, who are encouraged to explore their websites to find out more.
Ceramic Arts Network – Through our guild subscription, members can access an extensive range of articles, videos, and techniques—an excellent resource for inspiration and ongoing learning at all skill levels.
FUSION: The Ontario Clay and Glass Association – FUSION connects members to Ontario’s ceramics community through workshops, conferences, mentorships, exhibitions, and grants. Affiliate memberships are available at a discounted rate. FUSION also sponsors awards for our Annual Juried Exhibition.
Craft Ontario – Guild members enjoy preferred rates on Craft Ontario memberships, events and workshops. The organization offers professional development, juried shows, and exposure through retail and online platforms. It also sponsors awards for our Annual Juried Exhibition.
Arteast Ottawa – Our partnership with Arteast expands exhibition and collaboration opportunities within the local arts community, fostering cross-disciplinary creative exchange.

History
Founded in 1974, the Ottawa Guild of Potters was created by a small group of passionate ceramicists to foster a supportive community for pottery enthusiasts. Their goal was to create a supportive network where potters could connect, learn and share their craft.
The OGP celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2023 with many special events, including a scholarship program, 50 Pots in 50 Spots, the launch of the Ottawa Clay Festival and Capital Creates, a themed exhibition with our presenting partner, the Ottawa Art Gallery.
The OGP continues to thrive and grow, connecting potters of all levels and hosting sales, exhibitions, workshops, and public events.
RECOGNITION OF TERRITORY
The Ottawa Guild of Potters acknowledges that our work takes place on the unceded territory of the Anishinabe Algonquin Nation, whose cultural heritage and stewardship have shaped this land for millennia. We honour their deep connection to this territory and are committed to respecting and celebrating their traditions in our craft.