On Saturday July 30th, potter Lou Hanson will be conducting a pipspel making workshop from 10 a.m. to noon. at the Dairy Building in Bishop Hill, Illinois. Participants will learn to make a clay whistle… that works, called a pipspel. A pipspel is a clay whistle shaped like a bird, commonly used as a child’s toy in Sweden. This workshop is inspired by the antique pipspel located in the Steeple Building Museum. Space for the workshop will be limited to 15 adults. To reserve your spot, call 309 927-3899 or email bhha@mymctc.net. The cost is $20 per person. All clay, tools, materials, and kiln firing are included in the fee. You may pick up your pipspel two weeks after the workshop.
Lou Hanson apprenticed with Colony Potter Steve Holden in 1976 and 1977. She has been making her living with clay ever since. Lou owns and creates at Hantverk Galleri in Bishop Hill, Illinois. This Swedish workshop is sponsored by the Bishop Hill Heritage Association and the American-Scandinavian Foundation. The Dairy Building is located at 410 North Erickson Street, on the north end of town.