MICHAEL SWAN: KILN OR BE KILN >>>

More often than not, clay goes unappreciated among people who otherwise identify themselves as art enthusiasts. Maybe it's the craftsy reputation of the medium, with its associated images of grimy hippie practitioners. And remember those Christmas trees studded with Lite-Brite-style bulbs and frosted with opalescent glitter "snow" that Grandma churned out back in 1973? Sure, they've achieved heirloom status now, but even Grandma would have scoffed at the thought of displaying them in a fine art setting. Or perhaps people simply overdosed on "whimsical teapot"-themed exhibits the '90s.

Here’s your chance to become better acquainted with quality clay art.

The Washington Clay Arts Juried Exhibition will open Thursday at The Art Stop inside Le Roy's Jewelers in downtown Tacoma. Artwork by Thirty-two clay artists will be on display through Nov. 21, 2009. An artist reception will be held Thursday, oct. 15, 5-8 p.m., during Third Thursday ArtWalk.

[The Art Stop, 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Tuesday-Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Saturday, 940 Broadway, Tacoma, 253.272.3377]