Short, stout, handle and spout will all be taken for an interesting spin today at the ย“Second Annual Texas Teapot Tournament.ย” The competition features plenty of interesting takes on the teakettle by potters from around the globe. The creations range from traditional pots to more abstract designs that ย— if they could talk ย— might get all steamed up and shout, ย“How the hell do you tip me over and pour me out?ย”

Artists such as Joanne Taylor Brown, Nancy Goodearl and Joy Tanner offer more traditional teapots, with a touch of inspiration from seashells, houseplants and haystacks, respectively. Among the more abstract ones are Mirtha Aertkerย’s, which have baby arms and legs sticking out of the tops and sides. And Meryl Ruth, who won the Memorial Award in last yearย’s tournament, returns this year with a teapot that looks exactly like a purse ย— save for the spout.

See if these are your cup of tea, and donย’t forget to vote for the Peopleย’s Choice Award at todayย’s opening reception from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. 3195 Inwood (private residence). After today the exhibit will be moved to the Houston Potters Guild. Regular viewing hours are 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesdays through Saturdays, and noon to 5 p.m. Sundays. Through January 31. 2726 White Oak Drive. For information, call 713-528-7687 or visit www.houstonpotters.com. Free.

Wednesdays-Sundays. Starts: Jan. 5. Continues through Jan. 31, 2008

This article appears in Jan 3-9, 2008.