The thriving pottery culture of Northeast Georgia has been one of the region’s largest art attractions for many years. There are many places near Helen to witness the creation of this celebrated art form, and one of our personal favorites is Mark of the Potter. Located just 15 minutes away in Clarkesville, this one-of-a-kind pottery shop gives you the chance to see potters in action and discover the perfect pieces to take home with you.
Mark of the Potter is only one of the many unique shops you’ll find in beautiful North Georgia! Download your free copy of our Helen, GA Vacation Guide to find a full list of shops and so much more.
Brief History of Mark of the Potter
The historic home in which the pottery now lives once served the community as a gristmill. However, due to water damage from the river, the mill was closed and abandoned. Years later, a Georgia couple decided to open a pottery as a retirement project. They fell in love with the lonely mill and bought the property. After some renovations and the creation of their upstairs apartment, Mark of the Potter officially opened in 1969. Today, it is the oldest craft shop from the same location in Georgia! It has also provided some of the best handmade pottery in Georgia for over 46 years and plans to do so for many more.
What You’ll Find in Mark of the Potter
Pottery Gallery
You will discover many stunning pieces of pottery throughout the gallery, most of which were crafted right in the shop (they mark homemade pottery with a yellow dot). Other pieces are purchased from a select 25-30 artists in the southeastern region to support the local clay community. This is the perfect place to find a unique gift for your friends and family back home. Whether it be mugs, character jars, vases, or decorative stoneware, you’ll find it all in a variety of shapes and colors.
In-House Potters
Four talented potters call Mark of the Potter home and display their artistic creations in the gallery. Each artist has their own signature that they leave on their pieces, so you’ll always know who crafted the ones you’re interested in. You can meet them and learn their styles at the Mark of the Potter website.
Natural Beauty and Wildlife
Since the pottery’s location is abundant in beauty and resources, many native animals stop by for a visit! When you step outside, you may see critters such as deer, hawks, herons, turkeys, ducks, or bobcats. Bears are also frequent visitors and enjoy wading through the river’s shallow water for fish. Animal sightings make for great photo opportunities and an experience your family will love.
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