Hester and Joe Prouty moved into their small-batch production studio in the former Landstrom building in Rapid City almost a year ago, using clay from South Dakota for their popular mugs, bowls, and more. The business, dubbed Prouty Pottery, started to invite people in to not only purchase their items, but to give them the option to create their own masterpieces.
Get your hands dirty by taking one of their classes, including pottery, clay creation, mixed media, and canvas painting. 605 caught up with one half of the creative couple to see what they enjoy doing when they’re not “elbow deep” in projects.
When people come to Prouty Pottery, it’s great that they can grab a coffee from Dunn Brothers Coffee or a brew from Dakota Point Brewery since they’re both located in our building. Once they have their liquod of choice, they come up and get creative with us.
I love the historic feel of the Elks Theatre building. I love old things. Oh, and the popcorn.
I can literally sit for hours reading through magazines and drinking coffee at BAM Bookstore. I’m more of a visual person, so I enjoy looking at all of the photos.
I’m obsessed with plants and trees. I spend much of my time wandering through Jolly Lane Greenhouse’s various gardens, and I actually take notes. Yes, I’m a nerd like that.
Owning your own business is a lot of work. Most days when we get off, we come straight home and veg out in the living room. We have two teenage boys that we force to spend time with us.
I love to learn new things. I dabble in many art forms. You never know what you’re going to like until you try it out. That’s also why we have a variety of classes.
We don’t eat a nice meal out often, but when we do, we like to go to Dakota Steakhouse. The steaks are wonderful.
UPCOMING EVENTS
WHEEL OF FUN NIGHT
Pottery Wheel Class // 6 p.m. // April 5, 12, 20, 26
WOOD SIGN WORKSHOP
Custom Wood Sign Class // 5 p.m. // April 7
EYES ON YOU!
Painting Class // 6:30 p.m. // April 13
SUCCULENT PLANTER EVENT
Planter Class with Victoria’s Gardens // 6 p.m. // April 16
CLAY & CONNECTION
Medium Experience with Spirit and Divine Guidance // 6:30 p.m. // April 25
WINDMILL
Pottery Wheel Class // 6:30 p.m. // April 27
RANDOM FACTS:
I’m a recycling nut! I sometimes go overboard a bit and dig things out of garbage cans that can be recycled. My family just rolls their eyes.
Our backyard is like an oasis that we created ourselves. We have a garden shed made of 90 percent recycled materials, a pond with fish, and multiple seating areas to relax at. I spend most mornings in the summer out there.
I’m probably the most frugal person you will ever meet. Seriously.
We’re not a fan of change. We have lived in the same house for 21 years now with no intention of moving. We’re creatures of habit.
We have our products available for purchase in our studio and also in 10 retail stores throughout S.D. and W.Y.
FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT PROUTYPOTTERY.COM.
