Pond Farm Pottery

• Pond Farm Pottery, located in Austin Creek State Recreation Area in rural Guerneville, California, was the home and studio of Bauhaus-trained ceramicist Marguerite Wildenhain. For decades, Wildenhain taught summer sessions of up to 24 students, focusing on form and function, while addressing each student’s development as an artist. Wildenhain created a vast body of work of wheel thrown pieces and sculpture over her years at Pond Farm. She also authored 3 books, traveled extensively, and presented seminars, lectures, and exhibitions across the United States.

In December 2023, Pond Farm was designated as a National Historic Landmark (NHL). Today, docent-led tours bring Wildenhain’s story to life as visitors tour the grounds. The Barn Studio remains unchanged, its wheels and upstairs gallery a part of each tour. One imagines the energy, trepidation, and excitement of working under a Master Potter with high standards and equally high expectations of every student.

Now, every summer, six artists are selected for the Artist in Residence program. Surrounded by giant redwood, eucalyptus, and pines, guest artists reflect and develop ideas, finding their creative muse.

Arts in the Parks, a California State Parks initiative, brings 4th graders to experience how nature and art are inseparable. Led by docents, students hear Wildenhain’s story and create on site, linking history with their present selves.

Pond Farm is managed by volunteers from Stewards of the Coast and Redwoods.