Potters' Wheels Stilled After Fire

The potters prepared to move into the new quarters. But then they were told that the space wasn't big enough because of their high use of electric power to fire the kiln.

City officials and community organizations have been trying to find a place that meets the potters' needs, with 700 to 900 square feet of space. They have checked more than 25 places from a list of 70 possibilities. Only one potential site is available, but no lease has been signed, several potters said.

In the meantime, days that otherwise would be spent at the potting wheel are filled with the search for a place to work.

Instead of waiting for bureaucracy to resolve the problem, Jacobs, notebook and pen in hand, took to the streets around Capitol Hill to look for a place. Soon other potters joined her in the quest.

Sara Goldhawk, 45, who works for an educational nonprofit group and has been a student at the studio for 10 years, said it had become such an important part of her life that she is working tirelessly now to "make sure it gets a place and continues."

Nicky Cymrot, president of Capitol Hill Community Foundation, said the group is talking to property and store owners to find space for a suitable studio. "Everyone has jumped up and down to help them," she said.

To draw more attention to their case, Goldhawk has distributed a "Save Eastern Market Pottery" petition saying that the "Eastern Market community must secure and support the continuation of a pottery studio as it is a valuable community resource." They have collected 300 signatures so far.

She also created an e-mail address for testimonials, which she plans to submit to the D.C. Council.

Last weekend, the white of the rug atop Jacobs' table became more prominent with every hour as the final few pieces were sold. Jacobs is not making enough money, but what hurts more, she said, "is that I can't make them."

Rachel Davis, 33, stood at Jacobs' table looking for a green and blue mug to go with one she bought a few months ago. Jacobs told her that all she had left were the handful of pieces on the table.

"I have to wait," Davis said, before turning and leaving.