YOU’RE INVITED TO THE STEPHENSON CERAMICS LEGACY PROJECT LAUNCH PARTY!

SATURDAY, JUNE 27TH 2026

Open to the Public 6-8 PM
4380 Waters Rd. Ann Arbor 48103

We are delighted to personally invite you and up to 3 guests to the launch celebration of the Stephenson Ceramics Legacy Project. Evening festivities will include:

  • Strolling hors d'oeuvres and live jazz by The Paul Vornhagen Duo

  • An exclusive first look at VISIONARIES, a new exhibition featuring a timeline of Susanne and John's lives and artistic work

  • Access to explore the grounds, studio, archives, and gallery

  • A chance to become an active part of the Legacy Project

Become Part of the Legacy

Throughout the evening, you'll learn about how you can help preserve and celebrate Susanne and John's impact. From sharing your personal stories and experiences with their work to supporting the project through fiscal contributions, all funds will go directly towards the production and printing of two catalogues for this Dynamic Duo of Ceramics.

Susanne and John devoted their lives to building community through art, travel, education, and friendship. This project honors that spirit by bringing together a new community dedicated to preserving and sharing their legacy for generations to come.

As a special recognition, anyone who purchases a piece of artwork during the launch celebration will be acknowledged as an early supporter of the project and will have their name included in both Susanne's and John's forthcoming catalogues.

We look forward to an unforgettable evening of art, connection, and celebration as we continue to grow our network of supporters.

With gratitude,
The Stephenson Ceramics Legacy Project Team

NCECA 2026

Last month was an important moment in ceramics history with the 60th conference of the National Council on Education for the Ceramic Arts hosted in Detroit. It was an exciting week to see Susanne + John’s work featured in a few different exhibits around Detroit.

A FEW FUN FACTS ABOUT NCECA

  • Susanne + John were both founding members of NCECA when it officially launched in 1966. 

  • In 1980, John cohosted the NCECA Conference at the University of Michigan.

  • In 2002, both Susanne and John were recognized as honorary members of NCECA, and were recognized for their significant, ongoing impact in the field of ceramic art, including mentorship, creativity, and scholarship.

  • In 2026, we are delighted to announce that Stephenson Ceramics Studio has been selected by NCECA 2026 to be included in their unforgettable Collectors Tour. Collectors will get a wonderfully curated experience to help them select the perfect piece to take home. 

WHERE TO SEE THEIR WORK 

Pewabic Pottery | Detroit

John + Susanne Stephenson both served as board members at Pewabic for several years. Both John and Susanne have had exhibits there, and they both currently have work on display and available for purchase! 

PEWABIC POTTERY

10125 E Jefferson Ave, Detroit
Mon - Sat, March 23 - 28: 10:00AM - 5:00PM
Sun, March 29: 11:00AM - 4:00PM

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU!

We are working to preserve the extraordinary legacy of two internationally recognized ceramic artists and educators, Susanne and John Stephenson. We are collecting a lifetime of stories and memories about Susanne + John in order to preserve their legacy for future generations.

Were you a former student, colleague, or friend of this dynamic duo? We want to hear your memories and stories! We would love it if you shared this with others who had a connection to Susanne and John.

Our goal is to compile a comprehensive collection of these stories and insights about these remarkable artists to become a permanent collection for the archives. These stories may be used in future print, media, etc to help tell their story.

Click Here to add your stories and memories to this amazing legacy project!
Read about us in the news!

NEW HOURS FOR 2026

Drop by during open hours: Thursdays and Fridays: 12pm-4pm

New this year! We’re excited to offer one-on-one art consultations and a tour of the collection with our Studio Director, Patti Smith. These private consultations provide thoughtful guidance to help you navigate the work and find the perfect piece. Consultations are available Thursdays and Fridays, 12-4. Or, Saturdays by appointment with at least 48 hours advance notice. You can make an appointment with Patti using this link.

Please note: Parts of the property have uneven and gently sloping terrain. Caution is advised. There is seating in the studio. All ages welcome. All artwork on the property is available for purchase upon inquiry.