In the charming farm town of Elizabeth, just a short drive from Galena, and nestled along the rolling countryside of northwestern Illinois, discover the pottery studios of Paul and Laurel Eshelman.
From the moment you first walk into the gallery, you're struck by collections handcrafted by an artist who has dedicated his career to melding daily functionality with clean, pure stoneware glazes.
Each piece — from cups to plates to serving dishes — is inspired by Paul’s vision of bringing everyone together around a dinner table. His works reflect an artful expression of the everyday, bold, innovative, austere and practical; or as Paul deftly segments on his website masthead —Eat, Drink, Serve, Pour, Arrange.
Eshelman pottery is featured in art shows across America, recognized by fans and contemporaries alike as an ode to an era of stylized utility. You can also see Paul’s work in contemporary, well-reviewed restaurants, including Chef Grant Achatz’s Roister in Chicago’s Fulton Market District.
Meet more Illinois makers at Illinois Made.
Related Reads
Charles Lotton's Glass Art Studio & Gallery
Explore Charles Lotton incredible collection of blown glass artwork in his nearly 50-year career.
John Boos & Co.
The world’s most celebrated chefs do their best carving and chopping on hardwood boards handcrafted in Effingham, IL.
Blacksmith Chic
Return to a time when a cast iron hammer, molten steel and the sweat of your brow were the only ingredients required to fire the creative spirit.
Longshadow Gardens
Inspired by the diversity of shadows cast by oaks, lindens, and maples, botanists Charlotte and Daniel Ward cultivate one of the most revered planter design facilities in the world.
David Stine's Handcrafted Wood Furniture
Handcrafted designs and techniques stand the test of time as they remind us of the way things used to be will always be.
Share your Moments
#EnjoyIllinois