Hockley Valley potter Al Pace has been putting the finishing touches on new studio creations in preparation for his 31st annual Christmas Show, which will be held this weekend at The Farmhouse Pottery Studio Gallery on Hockley Road in Mono.

Al's original pottery designs are often inspired by his many summers spent canoeing in the Canadian Arctic.

"I always thought that my time canoeing was very private and personal - but my wilderness experiences have inevitably trickled into my creative process and so recently I have just thrown my hands up and let my two worlds collide in full force!"

His signature "canoevessel" continues to be a popular Christmas item and he has a wide range of giftideas in all price ranges.

Al's guest artist, Vicki Carruthers of Richmond Hill and Mulmur, sees the world in shapes and images.

As a painter working in acrylic, Vicki delights in a life of creativity. Through her vibrant colours, playful themes and hard edge compositions, she captures the beauty and spirit of the world around her.

Vicki will be present this weekend to meet guests and talk about her work.

Also featured this year are a variety of beautifully crafted Oconto Paddles from Kingston. These paddles are made in the spirit of legendary paddle-maker Ray Kettlewell by Trevor Jones, Sharon Quinn and Wally Wisteard of Oconto Paddle.

These traditional lake paddles are made in a variety of hardwoods including curly maple, black cherry and walnut often exposing stunning wood-grains as part of the artistry and beauty of these functional creations. The different styles include the Beavertail, Ottertail, Woodland and Tripper designs.

Bruce Wilson, who manages Oconto Paddles, will be on hand to share his passion for canoeing.

Drop in to the charming Farmhouse Pottery Studio Gallery this weekend to help celebrate the Spirit of the Season. You can enjoy a cup of hot cider and view beautiful creations in a relaxed atmosphere while examining creations that make treasured Christmas gifts that will last a lifetime.

The show will start Friday, Nov. 28, with a preview opening from 7 to 10 p.m.. It will continue Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days.

Farmhouse Pottery is located on Hockley Road three kilometres east of Highway 10.