Frequently Asked Questions
1. Where is your studio located?
My studio is located between Plainwell, MI and Richland, MI. My studio is an old chicken coop that has been converted.
2. May I visit your studio?
Of course! The studio is open Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday 1-5 and Saturday 10-2. Call ahead (269-207-5749) because sometimes I have to run an errand or am at an art fair.
3. How do I get to your studio?
Directions from Kalamazoo: Head north on 131. Take exit 49A to Plainwell. Turn right unto M-89 and head east for 7.8 miles. You will see Lake Doster on your left, Doster Rd. is the next left. Turn left on Doster Rd. You will head north for 2.8 miles until you come to a 4-way stop. Continue east (straight) for 1 mile. Right before the studio is another intersection (108th Ave on the left, 4 Mile Rd. on the right). The studio is on the left.
Directions from Grand Rapids: Head south on 131. Take exit 49A to Plainwell. Take the partial clover leaf unto M-89 and head east for 7.8 miles. You will see Lake Doster on your left, Doster Rd. is the next left. Turn left on Doster Rd. You will head north for 2.8 miles until you come to a 4-way stop. Continue east (straight) for 1 mile. Right before the studio is another intersection (108th Ave on the left, 4 Mile Rd. on the right). The studio is on the left.
*If you are using GPS, Google Maps, or Mapquest use 11944 Doster Rd*
4. How did you decide on the name Bella Joy Pottery?
The easy answer is because it’s easier to spell than “Heidi Fahrenbacher.” The truth is that it’s a compilation of names. When I was a junior in college I studied abroad in Germany and went to Italy alone for a week. This old man at the fruit stand called me “bella,’ I thought it was cute. The ‘joy’ comes from my roommate in college Krista. Her middle name is Joy and I loved it!
5. Do you teach classes at your studio?
No. My studio is tiny, but I do teach at the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts. I would check their schedule.
