Mountain Mayhem: Cajun Clay Revival

Carbondale Clay Center (CCC) hosted the Cajun Clay Revival — a favorite community event that has been on hiatus — on Saturday, Sept. 14. Held at the Clay Center’s Main Street campus in Carbondale, the evening began with check-in at a registration table followed by an invitation to select a bowl made by CCC potters to use that night for dinner and take home afterward as a souvenir. The talented chefs with Field 2 Fork Kitchen prepared gumbo for the buffet, while the famous six-food Gator Cake from past years was resurrected for dessert — though, this time, was reimagined as a cupcake display. 

Cajun two-step band Zinzin added to the atmosphere as guests danced throughout the night. Additional activities included a silent auction, craft making, and face painting. 

“With plans in place to rebuild the Carbondale Clay Center, it seemed fitting to bring back this celebration for one final shindig,” noted Elise Hillbrand, who oversees the organization’s marketing and communications. 

The beloved non-profit community arts center offers clay classes for adults, children, and families; outreach programs with local organizations; ceramic studio space rentals; long term artist residency program; as well as ceramic gallery and retail spaces. 

Forthcoming on the CCC calendar is the 26th Annual Cup Auction in December. Each year, this event brings 250 cups from around the nation to the Roaring Fork Valley that are auctioned off with funds directed to the CCC. Follow along on Instagram for a preview of the cups via Instagram.com/carbondale_claycenterand learn more at carbondaleclay.org.