When Crow Valley Pottery founding fathers Richard Schneider and Bud McBride opened the venerable Orcas Island landmark in 1959, they were also integral in the Nisqually studio “Klee-Wyk.”

The pair ran the shop and the studio at Crow Valley as well as produced pottery until their retirement in 1994.

“Now known as ‘early Crow Valley,’ the pottery captured the folk art spirit of Orcas, especially so in their bird and floral designs,” said current owner Michael Rivkin. “Popular with generations of Orcas residents and visitors alike, this early work is treasured by collectors today. Although crafting a very limited amount of pottery since their retirement, the requests for more of their work have never waned!”

The duo surprised Rivkin and co-owner Jeffri Coleman with a collection of recently completed pottery to be included in Crow Valley’s 2011 Potter’s Fest. Showing a broad spectrum of styles, techniques and wares, the 2011 Potter’s Fest opens with an artist’s reception Friday, July 15 from 4 to 7 p.m. at “The Cabin” with music by Carolyn Cruso, snacks, and demonstrations throughout the weekend.

Residing these days primarily in their Nisqually home, Schneider and McBride still maintain a studio.

The two artists are joined by about 40 other potters from the Pacific Northwest and many other pottery regions in the U.S. Presented each year by Coleman and Rivkin, this art show bring the works of many potters discovered by the pair’s frequent travels during the off-season. They are expecting more than 800 pieces of pottery from artists.