The truth is that not many of us would want to check in to the Gallery Lodge on Alaska’s Kenai Penninsula on August 15^th 2017, and then spend 6 days in the clay studio. Owner, Dot Hagen, an intrepid businesswoman and clay enthusiast, and George Lewter, founder of the cone6pots online network, have been putting their heads together for several months, developing the idea for an intimate un-conference for ceramic art mentors and clay artists -- to recharge in the larger-than-life environment that is Alaska. We want there to be some clay, but as a side dish, rather than the main course. We are turning the typical clay workshop on its head. No big Kahuna will get paid for sharing his/her wisdom. Rather all guests will enjoy lodging with self-serve breakfast provisions included for just $50 per night per person. Thanks to Dot for this deep discount off her high season rates. Other meals will be self -prepared or communal, according to guest preferences, and we have much time to organize some memorable meals.

Each participant is asked to give a brief talk or demonstration of some essential kernel of his/her ceramic process, that might be of interest to others attending. Presentations should be 2 hours or less. All participants are invited to create several small pieces during the first two days, so they can be dried and bisqued before the final evening’s raku party. The clay studio will be open for the entire week, and participants can make arrangements to have works bisqued and shipped home after the event. You just know that someone will be pressing a salmon into some clay.

Getting there will be half the fun. We anticipate that most people will want to attend this event as part of a larger Alaska vacation. Whether you drive, fly, take a cruise ship, or the Alaska ferry system, there will be more to see on your way to and from than you will believe possible.  

Even though the renowned King salmon run will be over, it will still be possible to walk from the lodge down to the river bank, and catch very respectable silver salmon (Coho), and have them on your plate at your next meal. Attendees will be able to book:

• Share charters for halibut fishing in Homer, the Halibut Capitol of the World, just over an hour south of Kasilof
• Drift fishing down the Kasilof River.
• Half or full-day sea kayak tours in Homer, or from Seward, or stay local and paddle the Kasilof River.
• Go sightseeing on a bush plane
• Guided or self guided day hikes
• Glacier cruises along Kenai Fjords National Park, 2 hours away by car in Seward

We will be inviting a list of our favorite mentors and give them several weeks to opt in, and then on July 1, we will open up the registration process and allow enough additional guests to fill the lodge to its 20 person capacity. The lodge can accommodate an additional 10 tent campers on the grounds at a reduced rate of $25 per night per person.