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Beautiful, Functional, Fabulous
Written By: Ashley Stewart | Issue: 2018/06 - June
One of my favorite things about the Plateau is the wealth of talented artists we have here. I love walking through all the art galleries and festivals that fill our mountains.
In particular, I love looking at the ceramics. The Western North Carolina mountains have a deep and rich history of pottery and ceramics. It’s such a fascinating art form, but sometimes it feels like it’s an art that gets overshadowed by painting and jewelry making.
Local potter Justin Allman of Firemoss Pottery is joining forces with his partner, Samantha Oliver, to change that. On Saturday, June 30, and Sunday, July 1, the world of ceramics will be on display at the Village Green Gazebo for the second annual Pots on the Green.
What I love the most about ceramics is that it’s not just decorative; it’s also functional. Mugs, plates, and vases are just as much a form of art as any sculpture. Come check out the folksy, playful style of Barry Gregg, or the contemporary designs of Maria Andrade Troya. You’ll also see the works of Amelia Stamps, Rob Withrow, Joey Sheehan, Make Lalone, Kyle Carpenter, Gay Smith, Jim and Shirl Parmentier, Joe Frank McKee, Travis Berning, Frank Vickery, Elise Delfield, and Heather Mae Erickson. The rising artists in the Western Carolina University ceramics program will also be there.
Justin laments that so many people feel like art has to match the drapes. “Don’t be afraid to break out of your box,” he says. “Art should be a reflection of yourself and your experiences. The hunt is much more interesting than the find.”
He also points out that the focus is squarely on Western North Carolina artists. “There are so many talented artists in this area. We have different artists every year, so you won’t run the risk of seeing the same thing over and over. You’ll always see something you won’t see anywhere else.” Admission is free with a donation.
“There is something for every interest and price point,” says Ann Self, Executive Director of the Village Green, “That’s what makes this event so wonderful.”
