QUARTERLY
CLAY
QUEST
Introducing POCG's
PennOhio Clay Guild’s Quarterly Clay Quest (QCQ) is an annual, 90-day studio project cycle designed to engage PennOhio Clay Guild member artists to move from creative exploration into a finished, cohesive body of ceramic work
Each quarter culminates in submissions that highlight a specific technical and artistic focus. This project formalizes the same disciplined, real-world workflow used in POCG’s Mug of the Month program while giving artists a clear structure for growth, production, and recognition.
QCQ is designed to be ongoing, cyclical, and artist-centered, providing consistent opportunities for skill-building, collaboration, and professional-quality output.
Each Quest is an opportunity for the creator to design a work that focuses on:
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Craft is how the materials are formed and shaped ( architectural and technical aspects of the build )
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Creativity is the unique and innovative dimensions of the work
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Content refers to the ideas and concepts behind the work
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Composition is the way all the elements of a work of art relate to each other
Artists are supported in developing not just a pot or sculpture, but a cohesive, intentional ceramic piece that reflects their growth and voice.
Each submission shall include:
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Artist highlight and inspired design story
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Documentation and photography of process and finished work
MORE INFORMATION ON HOW TO SUBMIT WORKS WILL BE PROVIDED BY MARCH 1st.
QUESTIONS? Ask Gerri or Septimus
QCQ #1 - Submit by MARCH 30th 2026
Look to the past for inspiration from traditional forms, historical pottery, or cultural reference
HISTORICAL
QCQ #2 - Submit by SEPTEMBER 30th 2026
COLAB • Set of Three
A set of three designed and created collaboratively by a team of 2 or more POCG members
QCQ #3 - Submit by June 30th 2026
Technical mastery of something with a lid encompassing fit, balance and proportion
LIDDED
QCQ #4 - Submit by DECEMBER 30th 2026
TEAPOT
Functional or Nonfunctional teapot emphasizing form, flow, whimsy or precision
Artist Recognition & Incentives
The Quarterly Clay Quest is presented to recognize and reward artistic effort, personal growth and artistic development.
All POCG Members will be invited to participate in identifying “4 Spotlight Areas” and will be presented with an online opportunity to share their highlight of the submitted works.
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Craft
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Creativity
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Content
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Composition
Submissions identified as “Member Spotlights” are eligible for :
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“REALLY COOL” Baskets filled with: ^6 clay, pottery tools and/or supplies
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Spotlight Recognition
POCG Special – Teapot Edition
The December Teapot Edition includes a POCG Special consideration focused on functional excellence, including:
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Lid fit and seal
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Spout pour quality
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Handle comfort and balance
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Overall usability and craftsmanship
Artist Options: Support or Retain • Benefit Auction
For each submission, artists may choose to:
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Donate the submitted piece for an online PennOhio Clay Guild Auction to raise money for community programming at the Canfield (Ohio) and Lawrence (PA) County Fairs
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Retain the work for their personal sales or collections
This allows flexibility while offering opportunities to support Guild initiatives.