Could it be that Robbi Fritz Portela heard similar voices “If you build it, they will come” as in the movie, “Field of Dreams”? Unbeknownst to AAPJ, the fact is in 1988, Robbi and her husband Bill moved to Windsor, Maine and over time on their Maple Lane Farm, which has minor livestock breeds of Percheron/Belgian Draft horses and Aracauna chickens, Robbi’s Maple Lane Pottery became a reality.
At the start of her lofty beginnings, in their leaky and drafty barn, Robbi started teaching pottery classes. In a matter of a few years, along with Bill, they renovated the lower level their 1800s farmhouse into a heated studio and small gallery.
Potter Portela’s own works are made of stoneware clay and is durable both as tableware and cookware. Blending her own unique designs; Robbi’s pottery displays a whimsical nature and are always functional.
The gallery soon outgrew its initial space and was moved to the upstairs of the partially restored, three story post and beam barn which is now Maple Lane Gallery. The farm’s rural landscape and array of other roaming creatures, provide the creative inspiration for Robbi’s pottery.
There is even more. The restored 1800 farmhouse is located on fifty acres, surrounded by gardens, orchards, woods and pastures and serves as a Bed and Breakfast. Nearby the gallery, there is also a cottage for lodging, offering guests many outdoor activities.
For more information, call 207-480-0398 or see: www.maplelanepottery.com
Reprinted from past AAPJ’s Potter’s Shed