The History of Pottery in Arkansas Presented by guest educator Michelle M Rathgaber, PhD, RPA

Michelle M Rathgaber, PhD, RPA, discusses the history of pottery making in Arkansas, complete with a Coil Building Demo and hands-on play at the NLRPLS's Innovation Hub.

Step back in time and get your hands in the clay! Join us for a special hands-on pottery workshop led by Michelle M. Rathgaber, PhD, RPA, Educational Outreach Coordinator for the Arkansas Archeological Survey.

In this two-hour session, you’ll explore the rich and fascinating history of pottery-making in Arkansas—from early Indigenous ceramic traditions to historic techniques that shaped life across the region. Dr. Rathgaber will guide participants through a short presentation and a live demonstration of coil building, a pottery technique that’s been used for thousands of years.

Then it’s your turn! Participants will roll up their sleeves and use air-dry clay to create their own handmade vessel using traditional coil methods. No experience needed—just come curious and ready to connect with Arkansas’s cultural history through craft.

Whether you're a history buff, a maker at heart, or just looking for a unique experience, this interactive workshop is a rare opportunity to learn from an expert and make something meaningful with your own two hands.

Seating is limited.

Pre-registration required.

Cost: FREE

You may also like the following events from Arkansas Regional Innovation Hub:

• Next Wednesday, 2nd July, 03:00 pm, FREE Class: Book Binding Basics Class for Teens! in North Little Rock
• Next month, 7th July, 08:00 am, Summer Camp: Build, Battle, Create: An Adventurous Summer Camp For Imaginative Makers Ages 11-14 in North Little Rock
• Next month, 10th July, 05:30 pm, Class: Pottery Glaze Chemistry Basics - From Minerals to Masterpieces [North Little Rock] in North Little Rock

Also check out other Workshops in North Little Rock.