Alexandra Box
February 26, 2021Return Policy
March 9, 2021
These virtual events are ‘Pay What You Will’ to support Medalta. Please consider a donation when registering.
Expand your love of pottery, heritage, and knowledge from the comfort of your own home with your friendly neighbourhood experts! Have you stopped by our museum but always seem to *just miss* a pottery demo? Here is your chance to catch a digital demonstration of clay processes used from over 100 years ago. Have you always been curious about that old butter churn you got from grandma? How old is it really? This series of virtual events will scratch all of those itches. These events are ‘pay what you will’ and proceeds will help us to continue keeping our museum and programs in the very best of shape (for a dusty old pottery factory, that is). These events are for all ages.
Jiggering & Casting Demo
Expert: Lisa Miklash
March 19th, 1-2pm
Lisa is back with another demonstration of our processes! Jiggering was the most prestigious and well paying job in the factory back in the 1900’s. Jiggermen were paid per piece, so they would hire runners from their wage to be able to turn more product. Slip casting was used with liquid clay to create pieces that were a more irregular shape than those on the Jigger machine. Not to worry if you’re not sure what we’re talking about, Lisa will show you everything that you need to know in this demonstration! Followed by a question and answer period.
Ask an Expert
Expert: Susan McKinnon
Postponed
Folks, here’s your chance! Do you have some burning questions about your antique ceramics made in Southern Alberta? Our Collection Manager is here to help you learn what your object is, when it was made and how it was used historically. Additionally, if you have questions about caring for your antiques, we can help you with that too.
All registrants will receive a link to submit questions and photos of your objects via email in advance of the session. Please ensure all photos submitted include any stamps or markings.
Please Note: We are only permitted to provide historical information about your objects and recommendations for care. In accordance with the International Council of Museums Code of Ethics guidelines we are unable to provide appraisal services (estimates of value).
5-Gallon Crock Demo
Expert: Lisa Miklash
March 12th, 2-3pm
The Weeks Machine was patented in 1909 and allowed Jiggermen to create large sized crocks here at Medalta. Years ago, we dusted off this bad boy and started research to learn how to use it once again. Today, our Jiggerwoman, Lisa, is a pro, and has taught many hands the art of crock making. Join us for a virtual demonstration of the historical technologies we still use today, along with a question and answer period at the end.
Clay Processing Tour
Expert: Alice Osmond
March 13th, 1-2pm
Follow Alice through the oldest and most original corners of the Medalta Potteries National Historic Site. Get an explanation of the machinery that kept Medalta in the clay, from blungers to slip tanks to pebble mills. This is a great virtual tour for those who have never been here, or those who have had a tour through Medalta but still have questions about the machinery on display, along with a question and answer period at the end.
