Ten ceramic artists from five states have generously donated their talents and time to create beautiful pieces that utilize metal oxides recovered from environmentally-friendly systems that treat drainage from abandoned Pennsylvania coal mines.

This collaborative effort was spearheaded by Jamey Biggs, a professor of ceramics at Concord University, who develops and generously shares his glaze “recipes” utilizing the iron oxide that forms under acidic conditions.  There are even pieces that sparkle in the sunlight!

The reception for the exhibit, entitled, “Clean Creek:  Iron and Manganese,” is being held in the art gallery at Concord University, Athens, WV on February 20 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. 

As part of the event, non-profit Stream Restoration Inc. has been invited to provide a presentation describing passive mine drainage treatment and the value to stream improvement, as well as how the use of the recovered metal oxides can help volunteers sustain the long-term performance of the systems.    

The artwork on display and the opportunity to talk to the artists are the highlight of the event. 

To see photos of their work and to learn more about the artists, a catalog that includes glaze recipes can be found online. 

Special thanks to the following ceramic artists that have provided further meaning and encouragement to abandoned mine restoration efforts:  Jamey Biggs (WV), Pam Esch (OH), Bob Isenberg (PA), Linda Arbuckle (FL), William Brouillard (OH), Susan Filley (NC), Matt Long (MS), Norma Acord (WV), Shelly Cubarny (PA), Amanda Wolf (PA).    

For more information, contact Jamey Biggs by sending email to: jbiggs@concord.edu or call 304-384-5351.  To see more products made from recovered materials and to support local mine reclamation efforts, visit the Clean Creek Products website.

2/17/2014