Silent Auction Items

• Artist Name: August Stolba
• Value: $350
• Starting Bid: $120
• Item Number: 59

Items gathered by board member and Marion business owner, Lexi Matthews.

This basket includes:

• Uptown Coffee Company bag of Espresso Roast & $25 Gift Certificate
• Scout Store: Gift certificate for $75
• State of Mind: State of Iowa Gold necklace
• Sea Love: scented candle
• HipStir: $25 gift card
• Uptown Snug: $25 gift card
• Chocolate Shop: box of assorted Chocolates
• HEA Book Boutique: 2 mystery books and pens
• 2 autumnal reusable Marion Towlettes with Marion Pin
• Box of Italian Crackers
• Hot Pepper berry Bacon Jam
• Elegant matches with clear holder

This one-of-a-kind planter was created by former Resident Artist and past Board Member August Stolba, celebrated for crafting eco-friendly, functional art. Thoughtfully designed with a built-in reservoir to collect excess water, this planter eliminates the need for a saucer—it practically takes care of itself! The piece features beautifully layered earthy glazes that highlight its natural aesthetic.

To make it complete, this auction also includes a $20 gift card from our friends at MOSS, a beautiful plant shop located in the heart of the Czech Village—perfect for finding the ideal plant to complement your new piece. —ready to bring a touch of greenery to any space.

Abstract Collage by Mary Zeran, Collage, Abstract with acrylic, duralar on cradled panel.

This signed original (71/100) by contemporary abstract painter Mary Zeran, based in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, features vibrant colors and dynamic patterns created with acrylic and Duralar on a 12″ x 12″ cradled panel. Zeran’s work is rooted in the belief that joy is a form of resistance—making this piece a bold and uplifting addition to any collection.

Cheer on the Cedar Rapids RoughRiders with 2 tickets to an upcoming home game at ImOn Ice Arena ($67.80)! Before or after the game, keep the fun going with $20 gift cards to each of two local favorites — MoCo and The Bar. Perfect for a spirited night of hockey, food, and drinks with a friend!

Enjoy a thoughtful gift from our friends at As Scribe, located in the heart of NewBo. This package includes a $75 gift card to spend in-store, along with a beautifully designed floral journal and pen set—perfect for jotting down notes, reflections, or creative ideas.

A lovely pairing of elegance and practicality, this collection makes a perfect treat for yourself or a special gift for someone you love.

Celebrate the beauty of spring with this curated collection of printed works by Midwest artist Barb Thompson. Inspired by the florals and vegetation of her Iowa surroundings, Barb translates the colors, lines, and textures of nature into pieces meant to spark joy every day.

This package includes:

-Peony print with double white matte. The print is 5×7 with the matte it is 8×10.

-A Spring themed notebook

-A set of 5×7 Tulip printed notecards

-Various Vinyl art stickers

This is a perfect bundle for art lovers, note writers, and anyone who enjoys carrying a touch of floral inspiration into their daily life.

This 6″ x 6″ original oil painting captures the vibrant elegance of the iris in bloom, entitled “Purple Iris #4” . Barb Thompson, a Midwest artist, finds inspiration in the florals and vegetation that surround her—whether gathered from her own garden, photographed in nature, or curated from local floral shops.

Her work translates the brilliance of botanical colors, textures, and lines into timeless pieces meant to spark joy and brighten any space. With experience across oil, acrylic, and watercolor, Barb’s still life compositions celebrate the beauty of Iowa life, offering collectors a daily reminder of nature’s fleeting but radiant moments.

Created by longtime studio member and Outreach/Mobile Instructor,, Roger Bergen, this small bud vase, created during an outreach event, features vibrant surfaces achieved with low-fire glazes. A one-of-a-kind piece that beautifully highlights the creative possibilities of this medium—perfect for your collection.

This three-piece bud vase set, created by Studio Member Cathy Petersen, features beautiful yellow and blue glazing techniques. Designed to complement one another, the vases are further highlighted with coordinating floral arrangements—making them a striking addition to any space.

Created by longtime studio member and Outreach/Mobile Instructor,, Roger Bergen. These bowls were made during an outreach event. Featuring vibrant surfaces achieved with low-fire glazes, they beautifully showcase the creative possibilities of this medium. A one-of-a-kind addition to your collection!

Donated by longtime studio member Bobbi McGee, this Relaxation Spa Basket is the ultimate self-care treat. Enjoy a $70 massage, luxurious lotion, and a charming gift basket—perfect for indulging in some well-deserved pampering. It also makes a fantastic holiday gift for someone who could use a little pampering

CSPS, located in the heart of NewBo, hosts concerts and events year-round. This pass admits up to 10 people to the same event—perfect for a night out with friends, family, or neighbors! Choose from upcoming shows such as Vandello (Oct. 25), Rocky Horror Picture Show (Oct. 31), Adam Ezra Group (Nov. 6), A Carol Christmas (Nov. 29), and many more. Plus, enjoy a $20 gift certificate from LP Street Food to grab a drink before heading over to the venue. Pass must be used by the end of 2025—book your block of seats soon!

CSPS, located in the heart of NewBo, hosts concerts and events year-round. This pass admits up to 10 people to the same event—perfect for a night out with friends, family, or neighbors! Choose from upcoming shows such as Vandello (Oct. 25), Rocky Horror Picture Show (Oct. 31), Adam Ezra Group (Nov. 6), A Carol Christmas (Nov. 29), and many more. Plus, enjoy a $20 gift certificate from Bricks to grab a drink before heading over to the venue. Pass must be used by the end of 2025—book your block of seats soon!

From our generous friends at McGrath Auto Care, give the gift of stress-free car maintenance this holiday season! This gift certificate includes 3 oil and filter changes, 3 inspections or car washes, and 3 tire rotations—perfect for keeping a loved one’s car running smoothly and safely. It’s a thoughtful and practical gift that saves time, money, and worry throughout the year!  This package also comes with a McGrath Tshirt and Baseball Hat.

Enjoy a full day of culture and discovery with 4 passes to the Museum of Art and 4 passes to the Czech & Slovak Museum. Start by exploring the rich history and heritage at the Czech & Slovak Museum, then take in the latest exhibitions at the Museum of Art. Plus, enjoy a $40 gift certificate to the Art Museum Store for a memorable souvenir from your day—a perfect way to make your cultural outing truly special!

From Orchestra Iowa: enjoy 4 reserved seats to one performance from the Masterworks Series (listed on the front of the pass) through 2026. This package also includes a $20 gift card at Cliffs, located near the venue, plus a cozy zip-up blanket and a reusable cup with lid—its all perfect for a memorable concert experience at the Orchestra.

Delicate thrown vase by longtime studio member and ICCGS supporter John McDonald. Measuring approximately 3″ x 3″ at the base and 5.25″ in height, this piece reflects his refined craftsmanship and commitment to the art of clay.

Enjoy a $20 gift certificate to the local restaurant Sacred Cow, followed by two tickets to an upcoming Clay Friday Night Out at the Center. Pick any Friday that works for you and make it a night to remember!

Striking set of one bowl and one cup, created by former Executive Director Ellen Kleckner. This set showcases her signature design and distinctive green color.  Items measure 2.5×2.5×3 (cup) 3x4x4.25 (bowl)

Adorable set of small cups by artist Sharon Knutson. These charming bowls could serve as salt and pepper containers in the kitchen. The white cup features Sharon’s whimsical inscription, “You have too many pans.” Dimensions: 2″ x 2″ x 2″ and 2.5″ x 2.5″ x 2.5″.

This lively wall sculpture, created by former resident artist Hiromi Iyoda, features a three-dimensional coffee mug emerging from a crisp white surface. Playful and imaginative, it beautifully reflects Hiromi’s signature whimsical style.  It measures 11×4.25×7.50.

Renowned glass artist and Director of Glass, Lindy Ethier, will design and handcraft a one-of-a-kind custom plate, tailored with your chosen colors and personalized details. Each piece reflects her expertise and artistic vision. Your commissioned work will begin production in January 2026.

This colorful plant stake was created by glass artist Sharlee Redy. It features delicate flowers and butterflies, crafted from warm glass, dichroic accents, vitrograph, and murrini. It measures 3x3x12 and has a tall metal stake to securely put it into the ground.

Created by warm glass artist and longtime studio member Nancy Sandstrom, this piece features a collection of hand-crafted glass cactuses arranged in a green container. Known for her intricate flowers and detailed glasswork, Nancy brings the same precision to this design. The piece measures 3″ x 3″ x 10″.

Created by longtime Glass Studio member, Nancy Rasmussen, this fused glass tree features interlocking pieces accented with shimmering dichroic glass. It rests elegantly on a circular mirror base.  This item measures 8x8x11.5

Generously donated by Terry Pitts, this impressive bowl, measuring 10.25″ x 10.25″ x 5.25″, is crafted by Alex Majaski, a master potter with over 40 years of experience and an estimated 100,000 pieces created. Alex sources local glacial till subsoil for his clay, makes his own pigments, brushes, and much of his equipment, and powers his remote workshop with solar energy.

Each piece is hand-painted with fluid, freehand precision, reflecting both skill and intuition. Majaski’s work is rarely seen online, has no agents, and is only available through select local shops—making this a truly rare opportunity to own a piece of his extraordinary artistry.

This elegantly shaped bowl, featuring three golden rings that pierce its edges, is a stunning example of contemporary ceramic art. Created by current Resident Artist Zoe Filzer, it combines form and function with a bold, modern aesthetic—perfect as a display piece or for very special occasion.

This beautiful platter is a standout piece by Lisa Williams, a longtime Studio Member and friend of the Center. Created in 1989 and finished with a raku firing, it showcases the early emergence of the faces and character that would define Lisa’s later work. A large, striking piece that reflects her unique artistic vision and mastery of ceramic techniques—perfect for display as a centerpiece or collector’s item.

his stunning sculpture is created by longtime Studio Member and friend of the Center, Lisa Williams. Each of Lisa’s figures is carefully hand-crafted, with features individually sculpted for unique detail. This piece includes a hidden chamber under the topper, perfect for storing small valuables. Finished in the Center’s wood-fired kiln, it carries a warm, rich texture that showcases Lisa’s artistry and dedication. A truly unique work of functional art.

This striking sculpture is a one-of-a-kind creation by artist John Schwartzkopf, expertly crafted from locally sourced wood near Bever Avenue. The same wood has been used to create benches at the County Courthouse and the Czech & Slovak Museum, giving it a unique local heritage. Featuring a rich blend of cherry, mahogany, and walnut, this piece highlights the natural beauty and character of the wood, making it a timeless addition to any home or collection.  The sculpture measures 6x10x40 inches.

One of our talented students dedicated 100 hours to create this stunning quilt! Measuring 107″ x 107″, each square is composed of 80 individual pieces, of which only 8 are rectangles—the rest are triangles—creating a vibrant, intricate pattern. Crafted from 100% cotton fabric with a high-quality 80/20 cotton-poly batting, this quilt has already been prewashed for immediate use. A true labor of love, perfect for adding warmth and color to any home.

Matching set of coffee mugs created by former Resident Artist, Mitchell Hilzer.  Check out his teapot in item number 15.

Beautiful teapot by former Resident Artist Mitchell Hilzer.  This teapot features a detailed cat as the knob, the details on this pot are gorgeous!  Check out Mitchell’s matching coffee mugs in item number 16.

Adorable mug created by former Resident Artist, Tabatha Jones.

Mustard colored bowl by potter Clay Illian, measuring 6x3x4.

Clary Illian is a potter who lives in Ely, Iowa. Illian apprenticed at Leach Pottery in England from 1964-65.

Hewing to the Leach philosophy, her subsequent work concentrated on the purity of the pot’s form and the potter’s life – one lived with strong convictions and a pure heart. She continues to produce useful daily pottery for local customers at a reasonable price. Clary Illian: A Potter’s Potter, a retrospective at the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art, exhibited from August 2012 to February 2013.

Slab bowl with multiple texures created by Leni Salkind, 4x4x3.  Make from porcelain.

Leni Salkind studied ceramics at the University of Maryland, with Mike Cindric at the University of North Carolina and at University of Kansas. She taught ceramics in the art department of Baker University in Baldwin City, Kansas. Leni’s work has been shown at the North Carolina Museum of Art invitational show, 7 East 7th Gallery in Lawrence, Kansas; Diane’s Artisan Gallery in Lawrence, Kansas; and at the Topeka Competition 31 at the Topeka and Shawnee County Public Library in Topeka, Kansas.  Her recent work, while functional in nature, is hand built using porcelain paper clay and incorporating a variety of textured surfaces.

Three piece set by Cups measure 3″ and 2.25″ with the jug measuring 3.75×3.75×6.5

Wood-fired, hand thrown and carved from stoneware clay with added sand, stones, and mica, by ceramic artist Gary Hootman. The cups have hand carved foot with the artists stamp. The vase is signed on the botton with a stamp at the base.

Gary Hootman attended the University of Iowa, graduating in 1990 with a Masters in Fine Arts. Gary built and maintained a home studio in Swisher, Iowa for a number of years. Well known for his wood kiln building skills Gary traveled in Iowa and overseas to lead and assist in kiln building and firing. Gary made functional wheel thrown ceramics that he then wood fired in his home kiln. Gary continued to make and fire work until his death in 2016.  Gary’s work has been increasing  in value posthumously with a cup available for purchase for $180 online.

Platter donated by collector Terry Pitts, marked with possibly ‘Donci Toso’,  the potter was located in the Southwest. Size is approximately 10×6.5×1.5

Ring dish with epoxy and a butterfly at the bottom, 1x2x2.5.  This item is on the right side of the photo.

Small ring dish with epoxy and a beetle at the bottom, 1x2x2.5.  This item is on the left side of the photo.

This unique ceramic piece, generously donated by collector Terry Pitts, measures 4.5″ x 4.5″ x 3.5″ and is signed with a “K” by the artist. Crafted by Kyle Johns, it reflects his distinctive style and attention to detail, making it a small yet striking addition to any collection.

This unique ceramic piece, generously donated by collector Terry Pitts, meaures 4.5×4.5×3.5.  Vase has the marking EE.

Two handmade ceramic ghosts 4x4x6

Ceramic Pumpkin with texture measures approximately 6x6x5.5

Sculpted by artist John Geist, this set includes two unique mugs measuring approximately 4″ x 3.5″ x 5″.