Welcome to Gumbo Limbo Pottery!
We’re a vibrant community studio that has been nurturing creativity and spreading the joy of pottery for over a decade. Founded in 2014, Gumbo Limbo Pottery celebrated its 10th anniversary on November 22, 2024.
Maite’s passion for pottery was ignited in a college Intro to Ceramics class back in 1999. Since then, her love for the craft has evolved into a mission to share the magic of clay with others. Over the past 15+ years, Maite has dedicated herself to teaching pottery, sharing her passion, and helping others discover their creative potential.
At Gumbo Limbo Pottery, we offer classes for all skill levels, unforgettable workshops, private lessons, and even fun-filled pottery parties. Whether you're here to learn the basics, refine your skills, or create something uniquely yours, we provide the tools, expertise, and inspiration to help you shape your vision. Come get your hands dirty and join our ever-growing pottery family!
The Story Behind the Name
When Gumbo Limbo Pottery first opened in the Florida Keys, we wanted a name that captured the spirit of our surroundings and had a deeper meaning. The gumbo limbo tree, native to the area, felt like the perfect choice. Known as "the tourist tree" because of its red, peeling bark that resembles a sunburnt tourist, the tree has a special resilience: even a broken branch, when planted, can sprout and grow into a new tree. This symbolism of renewal and growth resonated with us, reflecting the transformative journey of pottery.
The name also carries a personal touch. Maite, our founder, was born and raised in Louisiana, where gumbo is a beloved dish and a symbol of cultural richness and community. The connection between the tree, the dish, and the spirit of creativity made "Gumbo Limbo Pottery" a name close to our hearts.
It’s a name that celebrates where we came from, the beauty of nature, and the strength of community.
Studio Highlights
At Gumbo Limbo Pottery, we’ve created a space where creativity thrives. Our air-conditioned studio is outfitted with over 10 state-of-the-art Brent wheels, two kilns, a slab roller, and a pugmill, all meticulously maintained for a top-notch pottery experience.
We also offer an extensive selection of glazing options, including over a dozen dipping glazes mixed right here in the studio, as well as a wide variety of commercial glazes. These resources are available to our members and students, providing endless opportunities to explore and personalize your work.
Combined with our clean, friendly, and comfortable environment, Gumbo Limbo Pottery is the perfect place to unleash your creativity and grow as an artist.