Explore local clay history before European settlement with Bitsy Joy, Red Wing Arts resident clay artist the first Thursday evening of each month.
Learn through direction, conversation and experimentation with local wild clay.
In their work as the first Clay Artist in Residence at the Red Wing Arts Clay and Creative Center, Bitsy is exploring the concept of Land Back in the context of local clay. In addition to the diaspora of Dakota people, there has also been a diaspora of Dakota land in the form of Red Wing pottery and industrial sewer pipe. The omission of Dakota clay traditions from local pottery narratives is a cultural injury that deserves remediation. Inspired by the recognition and ongoing rematriation of He Mni Can, Bitsy is committing their residency to bringing greater awareness to He Mni Can pottery practices through work in community.