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34 | M A C O N M A G A Z I N E A P R I L / M A Y 2 0 1 7 I MMERSE YOURSELF in Macon's famous muddy medium and get your hands dirty during Fired Works, Georgia's largest event showcasing functional and sculptural pottery. Fortunately, it's OK to play with fire, or least kiln-fired pottery, during the 12th Annual Fired Works Regional Ceramics Exhibition and Sale. Macon Arts Alliance and Geico present the nine-day public event scheduled for April 22-30 in Macon's beautifully renovated Central City Park in the historic Round Building featuring 65 jury-selected potters from Georgia and the Southeast. Take a spin at creating your own custom piece of art in a Wheel-Turned Workshop or sip and sculpt your hand-crafted piece during a Corks and Clay Class. Meet 2017 featured artist Barry Gregg, who will host an intimate talk describing his creative journey and the inspiration behind his whimsical cast of characters. An exclusive Preview Party will be held Friday, April 21, with local music, complimentary wine, cold beer and flame- grilled gourmet tacos prepared by chef Chris Bolles on the South-African inspired KUDU Safari Braai. Attendees also get the first look and the first chance to purchase pottery before the exhibit opens to the public on Saturday. Fired Works promotes the rich history of pottery in Georgia and its connection to the history of the Ocmulgee River Region. The oldest piece of stamped pottery ever found in North America was discovered at the Ocmulgee National Monument in Macon during America's largest archeological dig conducted in 1933. Artisans have made pottery along the banks of the Ocmulgee River for thousands of years and local potters continue this tradition today. Fired Works honors this artistic tradition and supports Southeastern ceramic artists and potters who show and sell more than 6,000 original works displayed among a group of their peers. Fired Works classes and workshops mold local Lizella clay to create custom souvenirs during the authentic artistic experiences offered for adults and children. Fired Works is a program of Macon Arts Alliance and is supported by numerous sponsors and community partners. The proceeds from Fired Works benefit the participating artists, stimulate the local economy and help fund important programs of MAA including the Arts Roundtable, Ovations 365 community calendar, Mill Hill East Macon Art Village and The Gallery at Macon Arts. Get your tickets at www.firedworksmacon.com to have a great time while supporting vital community arts initiatives. MACON ARTS ALLIANCE GETS COLLECTORS FIRED UP FOR GEORGIA'S LARGEST POTTERY SHOW