August Issue 2000
Potter to Show Work at Kershaw Fine Arts Center in Camden, SC
The Fine Arts Center of Kershaw County in Camden,
SC, will exhibit the work of potter David Stuart in the Bassett
Gallery Aug. 4-30.
Stuart, a native of North Augusta, SC, creates both functional
and decorative pottery. His functional stoneware is usually represented
in large pots, bowls, and teapots. "I like it when people
come in and tell me they've been using a bowl for the last ten
years, and they still like it. Functional pottery is my bread
and butter," Stuart said in a recent interview.
Stuart also creates earthenware and raku pots, for which he is widely acclaimed. His largest influence was Pennsylvania Dutch redware, though his work has been termed as having an Oriental look. Stuart does not feel that his work reflects any certain type, though he is quick to point out that early American pottery, such as covered jars and pitchers, has made an impact on his work.
Stuart's perfection of form, texture, decoration, and glazing has gained national attention. He has exhibited in West Palm Beach, Pittsburgh, Chicago, and other states along the East Coast. He says of his own work, "The basic forms are usually made on the potter's wheel and are often altered by creasing, cutting, or paddling. Handles, feet, and other decorative elements are sometimes carved from slabs or thrown pieces while they are still damp."
Stuart's texture and color involve the use of varied slips, glazes, majolica-type stains and patinas to present a lighter, more polished look. FAC staff member Liz Campbell praises Stuart's pieces, saying, "The first time I saw David's work, I was blown away by the fantastic colors and weight of the pieces. The hues are so rich and vibrant - the pots stand out and make an impact."
Stuart frequently opens his shop, Wild Hare Pottery, for special classes, offered to both children and adults. The shop also includes a gallery where his pottery and the works of other artists may be purchased. In addition to his in-house classes, Stuart conducts workshops and seminars on various aspects of working in clay. He has also participated in many residency programs in South Carolina and Georgia.
A native of Atlanta, Stuart has been creating his raku, stone, and earthenware since 1974. Stuart received a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Louisiana State University in 1972 and a Master of Fine Arts from the University of Georgia. He then returned to North Augusta to pursue his passion for creating fine pieces of art.
Although Stuart has not previously exhibited in the Bassett Gallery, he has offered his stoneware and raku pots at the FAC's Holiday Sales Show for the past couple of years. Coincidentally, his principal instructor at Louisiana State University, Joe Bova, exhibited in the Bassett Gallery a few months ago with his Ohio University graduate students. "Joe is one of the most influential instructors I've had," says Stuart. "His ideas and work -impacted the design of my pottery more than anybody."
For further information call check our SC Institutional Gallery listings or call the center at 803/425-7676.
Mailing Address: Carolina Arts, P.O. Drawer
427, Bonneau, SC 29431
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