MILWAUKEE— This year, the Morning Glory Art Fair is celebrating 49 years. It’s a juried art fair, organized by Wisconsin Craft, featuring more than 130 artists chosen from hundreds who apply. Artists submit their work to a panel of judges for evaluation and selection into the final exhibition Aug. 10 and 11.
Over those two days, the plaza alongside Fiserv Forum, known as Deer District, will be full of art in all forms – ceramics, fiber, glass, painting, mixed media, photography, wood, jewelry, clothing and more.
John Bowers is one of the artists chosen to participate in this year’s event. Bowers owns his own pottery company called JBC Pottery. He makes food-safe, functional ceramic dishware, and has a line of decorative ceramic lamps with stained glass in the lampshades.
“For me, creating pottery and art is exploring and pushing your boundaries and trying new things,” he said.
Bowers has been working with clay and creating designs for over 50 years. He said it’s always been a passion of his, but took a back burner as he pursued a more traditional career in the trades. He spent his career working full time in plastering, construction and carpentry.
Now that Bowers is retired, he’s able to bring his passion back to the forefront, and not just do it as a side hobby. He said the Morning Glory Art Fair is one of his most profitable events of the year.
Jean Wells is a leader with Wisconsin Craft, which organizes the Morning Glory Art Fair. She said it’s so important to showcase and elevate the work of Wisconsin’s creative community. The event attracts visitors from outside of Milwaukee, and outside of Wisconsin.
“I think Wisconsin is a state that is really proud of our artisans,” Wells said. “It’s great to have people like John. He has been a potter for a long time and has really creative work, and his own sense of style.”
For Bowers, it’s not just about selling his pottery to people. For years, he has been donating his pieces, to the nonprofit Empty Bowls, which helps people dealing with food insecurity.
“It’s such an easy way for me to help give back to the community that also helps support me through my life,” Bowers said.