Factory direct

Panama Pottery's founders started making vases, urns and lamp bases back in 1913 under the leadership of Victor Axelson. For the next 15 years, Axelson ran the factory before returning to Sweden. Over the years, the factory's endured a fire and changed owners numerous times. Currently, the studio is owned by David DeCamilla and comprises the Panama Artists Collective, which includes welders, gourd artists, poets and painters.

Ken Knott will relate a more detailed history of Panama Pottery, the factory and the people who kept it running for more than a century at the Panama Pottery Factory Gallery grand opening event that's scheduled to take place Saturday, May 2.

The gallery is the latest addition to what has become a hub for ceramicists such as Marsha Schindler, Julia Connor, Jeff Grau, Susan Kelly-DeWitt, Arturo Singh, Glenn Takei and Sandy Whetstone, among others. Several PAC artists will open their studios and offer a peek into their creative spaces.

Much of the original factory is still visible and some parts, like the beehive kilns, are still in use for special events. While exploring the factory, learn how the early ceramicists created their wares, meet the artists, and listen to music by local singer-songwriter Ryan McBride.

Be sure to partake in the special Cup Half Full event. For this, $5 gets visitors a one-of-a-kind, handcrafted ceramic cup. Fill it with wine or beer—Track 7 Brewing Co. is one of the brewers scheduled to serve. 1 p.m. to 7 p.m, Saturday, May 2; free. Panama Pottery Factory, 4421 24th Street; www.panamapotterysacramento.com.