A potter for over 20 years, Anne Atwood Reimer is the founder of SnowDance Pottery. After moving to Michigan in 2011, Anne started her business after learning how to make handmade custom tile from her husband’s tile and stone business. Anne chased the dream of renovating a long-abandoned ski lodge known as Powder Hound Lodge. In the process of renovations, Anne purchased a second-hand kick wheel on her way north and from there SnowDance Pottery was born.
We love how your pottery is both whimsical and ornate, where does your inspiration for your pottery come from?
As a kid, I spent as much time as possible outside in wooded areas, letting my imagination go wild. I was also an avid reader. I still notice little things when exploring around here and imagine all the creatures and the spaces they occupy. I find myself bringing those stories into my art. I appreciate that you noticed the whimsical side. There is whimsy and magic to be found every day. Even if it’s just a walk in the garden, there is so much happening to make you wonder.
Like Stormy Kromer, your pottery also reflects the value of handmade quality goods. What is the most rewarding part about making a handmade product for your customers?
For me, the reward so often comes much later with stories about the blue, spotted mug always there at the cabin or the fairy house created for a sister’s garden. That’s when I hear how people appreciate the craftsmanship and remember it is handmade and heartfelt. Stormy Kromer products bring about great stories as well – I’ve heard many.
You’re a Michigan-based company, just like Stormy Kromer. What do you enjoy most about being based in Northern Michigan?
I love the access to the vast wilderness and nature but most of all I love the community. We have a really vibrant and creative and supportive community that works together to make the area succeed. So many people have gone out of their way to wish us well and say they want us to succeed in everything. That they’re glad we made the move and tackled the projects we did. That’s everything.
Photo provided by Anne Atwood Reime (@snowdancepottery)
What do you envision for the future for SnowDance pottery?
I plan to blend Farm, Art and Lodging more intentionally with SnowDance retreats. My husband, Chris, built a beautiful pottery studio and shop opening soon with produce and pottery. I’ve started weaving pottery into camps and vacations and it’s been a hit.
Anne wants the artists of the future to see the value of networking with other small business owners. From artists to marketers and shop owners, Anne wants others to see the opportunity for people to connect and share creative talents. Anne highly recommends the Range Art Association, which is celebrating their 70th anniversary as of this month. Anne also finds community with other artists at events such as the Emberlight Festival’s Art, which brings together people from all walks of life for a common love for art.
