Brother Basil Atwell, OSB, was the studio’s first potter. He already held a degree in Art with a concentration in ceramics. He excelled in porcelain work, but after only a few years in the Assumption Abbey studio he felt called to more active ministry. He returned to St. John’s for seminary and was ordained to the priesthood in June, 2002. Father Basil now serves the diocese as a pastor.

     Meanwhile, Assumption Abbey sent Brother Llewellyn Kouba, OSB, to apprentice under studio potter Sister Denise Frandrup, OSB, of St. Joseph, Minnesota. He returned to take over Assumption Abbey studio in 1996. He is known for his beautiful hand-built, wheel-thrown stoneware, terracotta and porcelain and holds a special interest in native clay and glazes.

     A good many items can go into the studio’s 45 cubic foot gas-down/draught kiln. A typical firing matures the glaze melt at around 2,300 - 2,381 degrees Fahrenheit, and can take eighteen to twenty hours to complete.

     The abbey studio is not opened to the public. Visits are arranged by appointment only. When available, pottery is in the Abbey Gift Shoppe.