STONEWARE GALLERY is home to two pottery collectives in Winnipeg. One is the Stoneware Gallery which showcases and sells the work of its 15 members. The other is the Stoneware Studio with 5 members, which offers classes to the public. They operate independently of one another in a symbiotic relationship and are two separate businesses. The Stoneware Gallery, founded in 1978, is one of the longest existing pottery shops in Canada that is cooperatively managed by a group of artists. It currently has 15 members who are all ceramic artists from within Manitoba. Each are self-employed, but jointly share in the operation and expenses of this store. Their pottery is among the best available in contemporary ceramics in Canada, offering a vast display of styles and techniques. Many have been potters for decades and have received national and international recognition. Their artwork ranges from tableware to one-of-a-kind objects suitable for private, corporate or architectural settings. Over the years the Stoneware Gallery has provided many ceramic artists with the security of an eager market for their work. The shared workload and costs associated with running the business, together with a loyal clientele of pottery collectors has allowed many to choose pottery as their career.