Guest Artist Jeffrey Oestreich Visits Marshalltown
Jeff Oestreich, a nationally known ceramic artist, will visit Marshalltown for three days this week. Oestreich explains his ceramics this way, “My early pottery training at the Leach Pottery in England in the late 1960’s was heavily influencde by Japanese pottery. I am currently doing salt glazing, which has its origins in Germany. I have one foot in Japan, one in Germany and an interest in Art Deco architecture. All things considered, my approach is American, borrowing from as many sources that speak to me.”
The visit will begin with a gallery opening at Midwest Frame and Gallery on Thursday, March 16th from 5-7:00 p.m. This event is open to the public. Meet Jeff and view his ceramic pieces which are for sale that night and for the month following his visit.
On Friday, March 17th, Jeff will spend the day with MHS Art Department students. He will demonstrate and talk about his philosophy towards creating his pottery.
On Saturday, an adult class is offered from 9:30 a.m – 4 p.m in the MHS ceramic art studio. Again, he will demonstrate and comment with time for hands-on participation. The cost to attend the class is $45, for adults, $35 for college and high school students and $60 after March 16. Pre-registration is encouraged. Kirk Niehouse, Art Department Chair, comments, “This is a unique program; nowhere else in Iowa do students and adults have this kind of workshop opportunity.”
Guest artist visits are supported by fundraising efforts. The next Artists for Education Silent Auction fundraiser will be held at Midwest Frame and Gallery on Thursday, May 11 from 5:00-7:00 p.m. The auction will feature artwork from MHS alumni, local and regional artists. Proceeds from the event fund guest artist visits.
