In 2003 an informal group of archaeologists, potters, replicators and others interested in the processes and materials used to create ancient pottery of the Southwest met in Old Leupp Arizona for what became the first gathering of the Southwest Kiln Conference. This event has been held nearly every year since then at various sites in the American Southwest. Our group invites previous participants as well as new artists and others with an interest in prehispanic pottery to bring pieces to this event and fire them using a range of firing methods and fuels which include trench, pit and surface kilns.
The Southwest Kiln Conference attracts a diverse group of people with a shared interest in better understanding prehistoric southwestern pottery. Expect to meet potters who work in a variety of ceramic traditions, making replicas of Ancestral Pueblo, Hohokam and Mogollon pottery. The conference will offer glimpses of the entire process from collecting raw clay, to forming pots and of course firing. All are welcome and the conference is free and open to the public.