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North Carolina Pottery Center Holds Annual Fundraising Auction at Leland Little Auction and Estate Sales in Hillsborough, NC – Aug. 11, 2011

Thursday, July 14th, 2011

As you all should know by now, government support for the arts is being cut back – whether it’s from local, state or national sources. That’s why fundraisers like the NC Pottery Center’s Going, Going, Gone to Pots is so important. But, it’s also a great opportunity to make a bid on some great pottery – new and old – by some great potters.

Hey Tom, I thought you have argued against the visual arts being used for fundraising purposes. I have and still will, as the visual arts are being used as what seems like the sole source of fundraising in the non-profit sector, but when it comes to visual artists helping the facilities and organizations that benefit them – bring it on. I’m all for that – it just makes sense.

And, if you’re thinking – I don’t need another piece of pottery or you can’t be bothered to go to an auction – just send the NC Pottery Center a check. The results are the same – just not as fun. Here’s a link for an easy donation.

So here’s a press release about the NC Pottery Center’s fundraiser.

The North Carolina Pottery Center, in Seagrove, NC, partnering with Leland Little Auction & Estate Sales, Ltd (LLAES), is pleased to announce, the 12th annual Going, Going, Gone to Pots fundraising auction on Aug. 11, 2011. The auction, our main fund raising event of the year, will feature an outstanding selection of contemporary and vintage North Carolina pottery donated by top NC potters and collectors, as well as other exciting participatory and pottery related items. The lots are available for viewing now at (www.ncpotterycenter.com) and (www.llauctions.com). This provides an excellent opportunity to purchase the work of nationally known NC artists for your collection, whether you live in NC or thousands of miles away. The move of the auction to Hillsborough, NC, and LLEA’s offers the opportunity for absentee, advance and live  telephone bidding for persons unable to attend the live auction.


Work by Mark Hewitt

The Auction is scheduled for Thursday evening, beginning with a 6pm wine and cheese reception with the potters, a chance to meet and talk with several of North Carolina’s prominent potters. The auction begins at 7pm with raffles and more. There is no admission and everyone is welcome!

The fundraising efforts are already underway on line, with more being added soon. Visit (www.ncpotterycenter.org) to purchase raffle tickets for an 18” Donna Craven covered jar valued at $450. This piece will be on display at the NC Pottery Center until Aug. 9, 2011, and then again at the auction reception. Tickets are $10, or 3 for $25, and all proceeds will benefit the ongoing operations of the North Carolina Pottery Center.


Bean Pot with lid by Jugtown Circa 1930-1940, Donated by Bruce Daws

The NC Pottery Center’s mission is to promote public awareness and appreciation of the history, heritage, and ongoing tradition of pottery-making in North Carolina through education programs, public services, collection and preservation, and research and documentation.  As with all non-profits, fundraising continues to be challenging but your support allows us to implement exciting possibilities and ensure continued success and viability of this museum that promotes and protects one of North Carolina’s most treasured resources. We hope you will stand with us to keep this wonderful tribute to clay viable and ongoing by supporting our annual auction.


Works from Cole Pottery

Along with our partner, Leland Little Auction & Estate Sales, the following sponsors have generously committed their support to the North Carolina Pottery Center’s auction: First Bank of Troy, Brad Crone, Progress Energy, American Ceramics Society, Aftifex, Jugtown, Caroleen Sanders, Linda Carnes-McNaughton, Pat Palmer & D. A. Livingston, Randolph Telephone Membership Corporation, Community One Bank, The Cranford Agency, Bruce Daws, Carmen Guy, Patricia Hart, Klaussner, Benjamin McDowell, Marilyn Palsha, Pugh Funeral Home, Westmoore Family Restaurant, Gardner Heating & Air, Randolph Electric Membership Corporation, Randolph Printing, The Grove Park Inn, Courtyard by Marriott Chapel Hill, Ducksmith House B&B, Seagrove Stoneware Inn, NC Zoological Society, Chili’s with more joining daily.


Work by Sid Luck

The North Carolina Pottery Center offers educational opportunities to statewide schools and individuals, changing historical and contemporary exhibitions, demonstrations, and information about statewide potters. The NCPC is a private nonprofit entity, funded primarily through memberships, grants, admissions, and appropriations.

The Center is open, Tuesdays – Saturdays 10am to 4pm. Admission (excluding free special events) is: $2 – adults, $1 – students 9th through 12th grades, Free – children through 8th grade, free – NCPC members. Handicap accessible. Groups and tours welcomed.

For further information and details call 336/873-8430, e-mail at (info@ncpotterycenter.org) or visit (www.NCPotteryCenter.org).

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Posted in About Seagrove Pottery, Donating Art, Fundraisers, NC Pottery, NC Pottery Center, NC Visual Arts, Pottery, Seagrove Pottery | Comments Off

The Annual Spring Kiln Opening at Whynot Pottery in Seagrove, NC, Takes Place – Apr. 16 and 17, 2011

Wednesday, April 6th, 2011

The annual Spring Kiln Opening at Whynot Pottery in Seagrove, NC, will take place on April 16, 10am-5pm and April 17, from 10am-4pm. I know there will be other kiln openings in Seagrove during this time and we’ll get to that, but these folks sent us info and they are good supporters of Carolina Arts. We don’t have any gold stars to put in their notebook so this is the best we can do to ask you to support them by going and buying everything they have. I might even show up to encourage folks along – I’ll be the one dancin’ a jig for gas money.

Joining Meredith and Mark Heywood at Whynot Pottery this year will be:

Laurie Abela from Abela Soaps. “I’m a soap maker, massage therapist & cardiac nurse. I grow food, flowers & herbs, some of which I use in my soaps.” Check her out at (http://abelabodycare.blogspot.com/).

Anne Raven Jorgensen from Raven Pottery. “My pots are all either thrown on the wheel and then altered or made from slabs of clay. I spend a lot of time decorating my pieces with wax-resist in intricate geometric designs. I also do a lot of decorating with slips in floral designs.” Check her works out at (http://www.ravenpottery.com/index.htm).

Laura Weant Johnson from Snow Hill Tileworks. Laura is well know for her fabulous tiles and jewelry. See her works at (http://snowhilltileworks.blogspot.com/).

Meredith and Mark are always willing to share opportunities with other artists and at the same time are willing to share the good talents of good friends with their visitors. That’s how they roll.

Whynot Pottery is located at 1013 Fork Creek Mill Road in Seagrove. You can find it if I could – just don’t drive too fast around those curves. If your GPS is broken or you can’t follow the map you picked up at the NC Pottery Center (don’t forget to see the Teapots exhibit) in downtown Seagrove – call 336/873-9276 – they’ll guide you in. But long before the dates roll up on you, check out their website, blog and Facebook page at these links: (www.whynotpottery.com), (http://whynotpotteryblog.blogspot.com/) or (http://www.facebook.com/whynotpotterywhynotnc). Get a good feel for what you’ll be taking home and who you can give that special gift to. Every mom could use a little pot on their special day – and that day is right around the corner. Get your head out of the clouds – I meant teapot.

To learn more about other kiln openings taking place in Seagrove at these same dates see our article on Page 36 of our April 2011 issue of Carolina Arts at (www.carolinaarts.com) or visit (www.DiscoverSeagrove.com).

You see, I wasn’t going to leave anyone out.

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News About the Seagrove, NC, Pottery Area

Wednesday, January 19th, 2011

From the NC Pottery Center

Dr. Everette James has once again donated an important collection of North Carolina pottery to the NC Pottery Center (http://www.ncpotterycenter.com/) in Seagrove, NC. Several years ago he gave several hundred pots that served as the core of a highly successful fund-raising auction held by Leland Little Auctions in Hillsborough, NC. This time he has given over 100 items for our permanent collection.

James’ newest gift includes a great variety of forms, including early lead glazes and signed utilitarian wares from J.D. Craven, J.F. Brower, George Donkel, and O. Henry Pottery. James of course is the author of North Carolina Art Pottery, 1900-1960 (Collector Books, 2003), and so it is not surprising that his gift features major 20th century artists such as A.R. Cole, J.B. Cole, Ben Owen, Joe Owen, M.L. Owen, and numerous others. Among the rarities are a Glenn Art Pottery vase with the original sticker, a buzzard vase by J.B. Cole, a pale blue dinner set from A. R. Cole, and an earthenware vase with cobalt flows from the Auman Pottery.

James’ donation is now nestled in the storage cupboards upstairs, but a future exhibition is being planned to show off this new acquisition. The NC Pottery Center ask all its supporters to thanks Dr, James whenever you see him. No one has been more generous to the Center.

Ben Owen Pottery Gallery Opens at The Ritz-Carlton, Charlotte

The Ritz-Carlton, Charlotte (NC) has opened its exclusive new Ben Owen Pottery Gallery, presenting custom pottery pieces from renowned Seagrove, NC, artist Ben Owen III (http://www.benowenpottery.com/). The new retail setting will be open to the public daily and has been created to feature the work of an acclaimed contemporary potter whose pieces already highlight the hotel’s extensive contemporary art collection.

The gallery will offer 75-100 one-of-a-kind pieces of Ben Owen III pottery, with prices beginning at $45. Works will range from pots, vases, jars, bowls and platters to major showpieces and spectacular larger works of art. All items are hand-created by Ben Owen, who also will make special appearances at The Ritz-Carlton, Charlotte for 2011 art weekends and art demonstrations.

The Ritz-Carlton, Charlotte is located at 201 East Trade Street, in Uptown Charlotte, NC. The Ben Owen Pottery Gallery will be open daily from 9am to 6pm.

Valentine’s Day Shopping on Busbee Road

Valentine’s Day is about celebrating those you love. What better gift than something handmade by an artist. The Seagrove Potters of Historic Busbee Road are planning a weekend shopping experience designed to fit your Valentine’s Day shopping needs,  on Friday, Feb. 11 and Saturday, Feb. 12, 2011.

Ten shops, including three museums, a jeweler, a blacksmith and a wide variety of other crafts, all in less than a three mile scenic drive, where pottery has been made continuously for over 100 years will offer their creative talents. There is something for everyone on your list in the shops starting on Busbee Road at Pottery Highway 705 and ending at Jugtown Road.

Participents in the event include: Ben Owen Pottery, Chris Luther Pottery, Westmoore Pottery, Hickory Hill Pottery, Mill Creek Forge, O’Quinn Pottery, Cady Clay Works, Original Owens Pottery, Moore Pots Pottery, Jugtown Pottery, and JLK Jewelry at Jugtown.

Visit  (www.potteryofbusbeeroad.com) for direct  links to the individual pottery websites. You can pick up the brochure for the Busbee Road section of the Seagrove pottery area at the NC Pottery Center, all NC Welcome Centers and at any of the shops along Busbee Road.

Just Another Day at the Pottery at From the Ground Up

Follow Michael Mahan and the crew at From the Ground Up pottery as they make 500 award pots for the 2011 Uwharrie Mountain Run on his blog found at (http://fromthegrounduppots.blogspot.com/). If you think potters slow down during the winter months – think again.

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NC Pottery Center in Seagrove, NC, Features New Exhibit of Works by NC Pottery Collectors

Friday, November 19th, 2010

The North Carolina Pottery Center in Seagrove, NC, will present the exhibition, Collector’s Eye, Series I: Seven Perspectives, on view from Nov. 23, 2010 through Feb. 12, 2011. An opening reception will be held on Saturday, Dec. 4, 2010, from 3:30-5:30pm and is being sponsored by The North Carolina Pottery Collectors’ Guild, based in Raleigh, NC. The Reception is free and open to the public.

This exhibit will explore North Carolina pottery through pieces selected by seven North Carolina collectors. The collectors in this series are Monty Busick, Steve Compton, Bragg Cox, Leon Danielson, Joe Foster, George Hoffman and Joe Wilkinson. This exhibit presents an interesting perspective on North Carolina pottery. This is the first of the Collector’s Eye series that will begin the visual journey around the state through the collector’s eyes.

Monty Busick, an educator for 37 years and currently a consultant for Wake County Schools, is the current president of the NC Pottery Collectors’ Guild. His collection is from the Seagrove and Pittsboro areas, focusing on Mark Hewitt’s apprentice’s work.

Leon Danielson, an Economics Educator at NC State in Raleigh, and wife Sue moved to NC in 1972. They collect NC art and utilitarian pottery generally with emphasis on Hilton Pottery from the Catawba Valley. Their collection of Tobacco Road Pottery is remarkable; they established this business with a partner in 1979 utilizing the turning skills of C.B. Craven and the artistic talents of Ernestine Hilton Sigmon.

Joe Wilkinson, an Antique and Fine Arts dealer from Spring Hope, worked summers in the early 1970’s with Dot and Walter Auman at Seagrove Pottery, developing a concentrated interest in pottery. Wilkinson collects Transition Period Pottery 1916-1930 and utilitarian pottery being transformed by Arts and Crafts influences.

Steve Compton was first introduced to North Carolina’s pottery traditions in the mid 1970’s while on assignment as a photographer for the Mebane Enterprise-Journal. Compton collects 18th to 19th century earthenware, utilitarian salt-glazed and alkaline-glazed stoneware, and early to mid-20th century art pottery. He is currently District Superintendent for the North Carolina Conference of The United Methodist Church.

Bragg Cox, a North Carolina native, has collected NC Pottery for twelve years; he collects early utilitarian, transitional, art and figurals from North Carolina and focuses on pieces with exceptional glazes, decoration and form. He also collects Southern decorative arts including folk art.

Joe Foster is a self taught potter, having begun as a pottery collector. He began working for Archie Teague around his shop in the 1990’s where he learned a great deal. When Archie died suddenly in 1998 Foster found himself with the increased responsibility for the day to day operations of the shop.

George Hoffman, originally from Delaware, OH, has been collecting pottery for twenty five years. He began collecting North Carolina pots when he was traveling down Hwy 220 from Ohio and stopped in Seagrove at Seagrove Pottery on his way to Seven Lakes. He collects early Jugtown, early Ben Owen III, Billy Ray Hussey, and candlesticks.

Exhibitions are made possible through the generosity of our membership, the Mary and Elliott Wood Foundation and the Goodnight Educational Foundation. This project was supported by the NC Arts Council, a division of the Department of Cultural Resources, with funding from the National Endowment for the Arts.

The mission of the North Carolina Pottery Center is to promote public awareness of and appreciation for the history, heritage, and ongoing tradition of pottery making in North Carolina.

The North Carolina Pottery Collectors’ Guild is organized for the purpose of fostering and supporting the folk pottery heritage of North Carolina and the interest of those with affinity for the rich traditions and wares of this industry. The Guild’s efforts advance this purpose in numerous ways including: collecting, organizing, and sharing information related to North Carolina potteries, potters, and their wares; identifying knowledgeable persons; documenting collections and research materials associated with North Carolina pottery; encouraging new North Carolina pottery collectors, and expanding the market for North Carolina pottery.

The Center is located at 233 East Avenue in Seagrove, NC. Hours of operation are Tue. – Sat., 10am – 4pm.

For more information call 336/873-8430 or visit (www.ncpotterycenter.org).

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NC Pottery Center Raffles Off Mark Hewitt Pot at 3rd Annual Celebration of Seagrove Potters in Seagrove, NC – This Weekend

Friday, November 19th, 2010

If you plan to visit the 3rd Annual Celebration of Seagrove Potter this weekend at the historic Luck’s Cannery in Seagrove, NC, you want to be sure to stop by the North Carolina Pottery Center booth for your chance to win this beautiful Mark Hewitt pot. Raffle tickets are only $5.00 each or 3 for $10.00.  We hope to see you there!

Raffle to benefit the North Carolina Pottery Center

Purchase your tickets at the NCPC booth located at the entrance to the potters exhibit hall.


Two Gallon Jar, Wood-fired salt glazed stoneware, with medallions and blue glass runs, 16″ H x 11″ D, retail Value: $250

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A Look at the Seagrove, NC, Area Calendar – the Center of NC Pottery

Friday, November 5th, 2010

That “Center of NC Pottery” thing is more about a geographical description. We know there is pottery going on all over North Carolina, but it sounds good saying it. We definitely hear more from the potters in the Seagrove area. But if you ever want to know what’s going on or being planned in Seagrove, just check the site of the Seagrove Area Potters Association at (http://www.discoverseagrove.com/).


From Westmoore Pottery

First up is the Westmoore Pottery: Heritage Day, taking place on Nov. 13, 2010, 9am-5pm. In November of each year, Westmoore Pottery marks the anniversary of its founding in 1977 (33 years this year!) by celebrating both their own and North Carolina’s pottery heritage. The focus this year will be on styles made by North Carolina’s non-Moravian potters who were working in the 18th and early 19th centuries. The official Westmoore Pottery scrapbooks will also be hauled out for the day. Westmoore Pottery is located at 4622 Busbee Road in Seagrove. For further info call 910/464-3700, e-mail at (westmoore@rtmc.net) or visit (www.westmoorepottery.com).

Of course the exhibit, Pottery from the Coastal Carolina Clay Guild, is still on view at the North Carolina Pottery Center in “downtown” Seagrove through Nov. 13, 2010, and then from Nov. 23, 2010 through Feb. 12, 2011, the Center will be offering the exhibit, Collectors Eye, Series I: Seven Perspectives, featuring works from the collections of Monty Busick, Steve Compton, Bragg Cox, Leon Danielson, Joe Foster, George Hoffman, and Joe Wilkinson.

The NC Pottery Center is always a good first stop when visiting Seagrove.

To finnish off the month of November, you have the 3rd Annual Celebration of Seagrove Potters which takes place at the historic Luck’s Cannery in Seagrove on Nov. 19 – 21, 2010. For further information e-mail (contact@celebrationofseagrovepotters.com) or visit (www.celebrationofseagrovepotters.com).

I’ve heard that there is another pottery festival going on in Seagrove at the same time and dates as the Celebration, but I don’t know anything about it – they haven’t contacted me about it so I have nothing to say about it.

Once we’ve filled ourselves with turkey and we wake up from that big nap, our thoughts turn to holiday gifts. The Seagrove area potters are there for you with kiln openings and other events.


Joseph Sand Pottery

Back in August we brought you news about a new pottery opening – not in Seagrove, but in the area between Randleman and Asheboro – just up the road from Seagrove or on the way, if you’re traveling on Hwy. 220 (the future I-73 & I-74) – Joseph Sand Pottery. Joseph Sand was hosting his first kiln opening and we hear it was a big success. His next kiln opening is on Dec. 4, 2010, (9am to 5pm) and Dec. 5, 2010, (noon to 5pm). They will have many of the same kind of items for sale again, including an array of large, sculptural vases.


Pottery by Joseph Sand


A peek inside the monster kiln at Joseph Sand Pottery

Joseph Sand Pottery is located at 2555 George York Road in Randleman, NC. For further info call 612/518-4051, e-mail at (joseph@jsspottery.com) and on the web at (www.jsspottery.com). He and his wife Amanda also offer a blog found at (www.sandceramics.blogspot.com).


From Westmoore Pottery

Westmoore Pottery (4622 Busbee Road, Seagrove, NC) will also be offering a Holiday Open House on Dec. 4, 2010, from 9am to 5pm. Join the folks at Westmoore Pottery as they celebrate the holiday season. The shop will be decorated for the holidays, and a kiln load of pottery will be unloaded, including special pieces made just for this day. Refreshments will be served. For further info call 910/464-3700, e-mail at (westmoore@rtmc.net) or visit (www.westmoorepottery.com).

Also on Saturday, Dec. 4, 2010, from 9:30am-5:30pm Seagrove potters Bruce Gholson and Samantha Henneke will have a fresh variety of pottery in their shop for the holiday season. Visit them at their Bulldog Pottery studio, located at 3306 US Hwy 220 Seagrove, NC, for lively conversation about their recent work and light refreshments. For more information about Samantha and Bruce’s holiday kiln opening call them at 336/302-3469, e-mail to (bulldog@bulldogpottery.com), or visit (www.bulldogpottery.com).


From Thomas Pottery

Thomas Pottery at 1295 S. NC 705 Hwy. in Seagrove will have its 2010 Holiday Kiln Opening on Dec. 4, 2010, from 10am-5pm & Dec. 5, 2010, from 1-4pm. Thomas Pottery welcomes you to see their most popular hand-painted log cabin snow scene dinnerware with accompanying serving pieces. Angels, candle holders, holiday trays and an array of tree ornaments will be offered. During this special event, tours of the studio and refreshments will be served. For further info call 336/879-4145, e-mail at (scottandbobbie@thomaspottery.com) or visit (www.thomaspottery.com).


A look inside Seagrove Stoneware

A little later in the month, Seagrove Stoneware at 136 W Main Street in Seagrove will host its Annual Kiln Opening & Gallery Sale on Dec. 11 & 12, 2010. Join them for their annual kiln opening and gallery sale featuring new work, one of a kind pieces, and special discounts in their gallery. For further information call 336/873-8283, e-mail at (artists@seagrovestoneware.com) or visit (www.seagrovestoneware.com).

Of course whenever you’re in Seagrove, there are 24 potteries that participated in the Seagrove Potters for Peace 2010 fundraiser for Three Cups of Tea author Greg Mortenson’s Central Asia Institute. Since August of this year, the group has raised nearly $6000. These galleries have sold a lot of special items for this cause, but there are still plenty of items left to purchase. Check this link to see which potteries have items left. For more information and a list of participating potters, go to (www.seagrovepottersforpeace.com) or call 910/464-5661.

There you go. This is what I know is going on, but I bet there is always something else going on that I don’t know about. And like I said above – check out the site for the Seagrove Area Potters Association at (http://www.discoverseagrove.com/).

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NC Pottery Center in Seagrove, NC, is Awarded $32,497 from the NC Arts Council

Thursday, August 19th, 2010

Here’s the press release we received at Carolina Arts:

Seagrove, NC – The NC Pottery Center (NCPC) in Randolph County has been awarded $32,497 from the NC Arts Council for State Arts Resources and the Traditional Arts Programs in Schools (TAPS).

The funds will be used to support several major exhibitions curated by guest artists during the grant cycle, and the Traditional Arts Programs in the local elementary school.

Linda Carnes-McNaughton, president of the NCPC board of directors said, “State funds allow Randolph County to provide quality arts programming for students and adults, while sustaining our local economy.  Last year, the NC Pottery Center provided programming for more than 11,500 citizens, including adults, youth, and children from all over North Carolina as many were day-travelers to the area. Visitors from all 50 states were represented, and visitors came from 27 foreign countries”.

A highlight of our programming is the Traditional Arts Programs in the local Seagrove Elementary School (TAPS), for fifth grade students. The two sessions taught by fifth generation potter Sid Luck of Luck’s Ware, are scheduled for fall 2010 and spring 2011. The ten-week pottery program is so popular with students, it requires registration and a random drawing for participation.

“The support of our grants program by the General Assembly during these economically challenging times demonstrates the role the arts play in our economy and our quality of life,” said Mary B. Regan, executive director of the NC Arts Council.  “Nonprofit arts organizations employ workers, stimulate commerce, generate tax revenues and help communities retain their vibrancy.”

More than 13.6 million people participated in NC Arts Council-funded projects last year in schools, senior centers, concert halls and community centers. Nearly 4.3 million of these were children and youth.

The NC Arts Council awards grant money each year to provide diverse arts experiences for citizens in all 100 counties of North Carolina. In fiscal year 2010-11, the Arts Council is expected to distribute $7,4 million in state and federal grant funds to arts organizations, schools and other nonprofit organizations that sponsor arts programs.

Exhibitions at the NC Pottery Center are made possible through the generosity of our membership, the Mary and Elliott Wood Foundation and the Goodnight Educational Foundation. These projects are supported by the NC Arts Council, a division of the Department of Cultural Resources, with funding from the National Endowment for the Arts.

The mission of the North Carolina Pottery Center is to promote public awareness of and appreciation for the history, heritage, and ongoing tradition of pottery making in North Carolina.

The current exhibit is, Pottery from the Coastal Carolina Clay Guild, on view through Nov. 13, 2010. The Coastal Carolina Clay Guild was founded in 2007 by a group of Wilmington, NC, potters with the purpose of sharing ideas and promoting the art and craft of pottery in our community. The Guild has grown to 100 members who reside in the eastern regions of North and South Carolina and are a diverse group consisting of full time, part time, and student potters.

The Center is located at 233 East Avenue in Seagrove, NC. Hours of operation are Tue. – Sat., 10am – 4pm.

For more information, please call 336/873-8430 or go to (www.ncpotterycenter.org).

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North Carolina Pottery Center in Seagrove, NC, Announces 11th Annual Benefit Auction Results!

Wednesday, June 16th, 2010

I received this info at Carolina Arts about the fundraiser which took place at the NC Pottery Center in April. As you read this and start thinking – I should have been there, you can still be there by sending in a nice check to support the NC Pottery Center. They can even take your money online at this link.

Here’s the press release:

The North Carolina Pottery Center in partnership with Leland Little Auction and Estate Sales, Ltd. is pleased to announce that we have raised $24,800 at the 11th Annual Benefit Auction “Going, Going, Gone To Pots!” held Sunday afternoon, April 25, 2010, at the North Carolina Pottery Center in Seagrove, NC. The auction featured over one hundred fifty pieces of fine contemporary and historical North Carolina pottery.

The evening was made possible through the generosity of North Carolina potters and collectors, Signature Sponsors included: Community One Bank, First Bank, and Leland Little Auction and Estate Sales, Ltd., along with Gold Sponsors included: Progress Energy, Insurance Associates of the Triad, Total Communications, the Umstead Hotel and Spa, Sodexho, and Pugh Funeral Home.

Our Silver Sponsors included: Cabot Cheese, Seagrove Stoneware Inn, Eco Ornaments, Duck Smith House, Village Printing, Rock Ola Cafe, Klaussner Foundation, Kirk McNaughton and Linda Carnes-McNaughton, Energizer Battery, Asheboro, and the NC Zoological Society. Our volunteers were many and they made this a wonderful event. The Auction Committee comprised of the NCPC Board members, the NCPC staff and Bonnie Burns and Dick and Joanne Peterson put in many hours planning and fund raising.

During the Auction Preview hour Bluegrass music was featured by Matthew Nance and friends and attendees enjoyed a light buffet.

Exhibitions are made possible through the generosity of our membership, the North Carolina Arts Council, the National Endowment for the Arts, Institute of Museum and Library Services, the Mary and Elliott Wood Foundation, and the Goodnight Educational Foundation. Thank you!

Back to me.

If you’re going through that area or are interested in learning about NC pottery, visit the Center. They are currently presenting the exhibition, The Pottery of Buncombe County, A Historical and Contemporary Overview, featuring two separate, but related exhibitions, on view through July 31, 2010. You can read about the exhibits and see some images at this link.

The mission of the North Carolina Pottery Center is to promote public awareness of and appreciation for the history, heritage, and ongoing tradition of pottery making in North Carolina. The Center is located at 233 East Avenue in Seagrove, NC. Hours of operation are Tue – Sat 10 am – 4 pm.

For more information, please call 336/873-8430 or visit (www.ncpotterycenter.org).

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North Carolina Pottery Center in Seagrove, NC, Features Pottery of Buncombe County

Sunday, May 9th, 2010

I’m jumping the gun again on our June issue of Carolina Arts, but I wanted readers to know about this exhibit as soon as possible – especially since works by the contemporary artists being featured are for sale. The exhibit started May 7, but if you didn’t read about it until after our June issue hits the streets – you would be way behind other collectors. Now we can’t have that for our loyal readers.

BTW – the true meaning of the phrase “contemporary artists” in this case is artists who are still alive. The word “contemporary” doesn’t always mean – cutting edge, funky or even avant-garde. But many of the contemporary artists in this exhibit may be producing non-traditional pottery. Now, if I only had a description for non-traditional. Well, you could always go see for yourself.

Here’s the press release:

The North Carolina Pottery Center in Seagrove, NC, is presenting The Pottery of Buncombe County, A Historical and Contemporary Overview, featuring two separate, but related exhibitions, on view through July 31, 2010.

The Contemporary Pottery Overview of Buncombe County, curated by Brian McCarthy of Asheville, NC, a  longtime major supporter of the NC Pottery Center is featured in Galleries I and II.  Contemporary wares by thirty-nine potters from the Buncome County, Asheville area includes works by: Troy Amastar, Maria Andrate-Troya, Kristen Benyo-Schoonover, Eileen Black, Charlie Brown, Kyle Carpenter, Chiwa Clark, Josh Copus, Julie Covington, Lee Davis, Holly deSaillan, Steven Forbes-deSoule, Paul Frehe, Diana Gillispie, Hank Goodman, Michael Hoffman, Jennifer Hoolihan, Freeman Jones, Matthew Jones, Maggie Jones, Gabriel Kline, Eric Knoche, Tyrone Larson, Julie Larson, Cynthia Lee, Rodney Leftwich, Leah Leitson, Rob Mangum, Beth Moring, Karen Newgard, Les Powell, John Ransmeier, Emily Reason, Cassie Ryalls, Akira Satake, Joey Sheehan, Heather Tinnero, Kathy Triplett, and Fran Welch.


Work by Kyle Carpenter


Work by Steven Forbes deSoule

The works by these contemporary artists are available for sale during the exhibition.

The Historical Pottery Overview of Buncombe County, curated by Steve Lott of the Buncombe County area is showcased in Gallery III. This exhibit features historical Buncombe County forms from early masters like Oscar Bachelder, Davis Brown, Javan Brown, Thomas Case, David Donkel, George Donkel, Albert Fulbright, Jeter Lankford, Cash Penland, William Marion Penland, Joseph Sylvester Penland, Lee Smith Pottery, Walter B. Stephen, Edward Stone, John Henry Stone, Mr. & Mrs. Thomas Throckmorton, and Benjamin Trull.


Historical work from Pisgah Forest


Historical work from Pisgah Forest

These exhibitions are being sponsored by Harriett Herring.

Exhibitions at the North Carolina Pottery Center are also made possible through the generosity of our membership, the North Carolina Arts Council, the National Endowment for the Arts, the Mary and Elliott Wood Foundation and the Goodnight Educational Foundation.

The Center is located in Seagrove, in the heart of the state. Its mission is to interpret the history and on-going tradition of North Carolina pottery making. Beginning with American Indian pottery and followed by the work of European settlers, production has continued uninterrupted for centuries. Interpretive exhibits and programs are featured, and the Center provides information to visitors about the nearly 100 potteries located in the Seagrove area.

For further information check our NC Institutional Gallery listings, call the Center at 336/873-8430 or visit (www.ncpotterycenter.org).

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North Carolina Pottery Center 11th Annual Auction Takes Place in Seagrove, NC – April 25, 2010

Saturday, March 20th, 2010

Well, I hope no regular reader of Carolina Arts Unleashed needs to be reminded that the North Carolina Pottery Center in Seagrove, NC, is keeping the doors open by fundraising events as funding from local, regional, state or national government sources is not cutting it. Without these fundraisers and the support of those people who participate in these fundraisers – those doors would be closed.

So, it’s important to support these events – if you’re a pottery lover, history lover, art lover, or just a person who appreciates the fact that thousands of years ago some creative folks discovered a way to turn – what most thought was just dirt – into vessels which: kept people from having to walk to the stream, river or lake every time they were thirsty, made it possible to store fluids and foods for a period of time, and made it possible to eat food on a surface which kept the junk of the world out of our food.

It’s called pottery. Some of you still use some of these products – everything isn’t made of plastic – yet. And, I for one, hope that day never comes.

So, my pitch is for as many of you that can – go to this event, spend lots of money and if you can’t go – bid by phone. If you can’t afford to do either, see if you can become a member. And, if you’re one of those folks with the bothersome problem of having so much money you just can’t think of enough ways to reduce your tax burden – write the NC Pottery Center a big check and if that doesn’t help your situation out enough – write one to Carolina Arts too. We’re here to help you good folks.

One final note – you can preview the auction offerings on Friday, Apr. 23, 2010, from 10am -5pm and Sunday, Apr. 25, 2010, before the auction starts.

Here’s their pitch:

The North Carolina Pottery Center, partnering with Leland Little Auction & Estate Sales, Ltd (LLAES), is pleased to announce, the 11th annual, Going, Going, Gone to Pots!, fundraising auction on April 25, 2010. In addition to an outstanding selection of contemporary and vintage pottery, the auction will offer pottery related items, such as books, posters and photographs. These items will be available for viewing on three web sites; (www.auctionzip.com), (www.ncpotterycenter.com) and (www.llauctions.com), which will offer national exposure of the items, artists and the North Carolina Pottery Center. The new expanded preview period, which opens later this month, also provides an option facilitated by LLAES, Ltd., for absentee and advance telephone bidding for persons unable to attend the live auction.

The North Carolina Pottery Center’s Board of Directors and the auction/fundraising committee, encourages and appreciates the public support that enables us to maintain our mission of promoting public awareness and appreciation of the history, heritage, and ongoing tradition of pottery making in North Carolina. We cordially invite you to participate in this vital and necessary fund-raising event. Your support allows us to ensure the continued success and viability of the North Carolina Pottery Center.

Along with our partner, Leland Little Auction & Estate Sales, the following sponsors have generously committed their support to the North Carolina Pottery Center’s auction: Total Communication, Community One Bank, the Pinehurst/Southern Pines/Aberdeen Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, The Umstead Hotel, Energizer, Pugh Funeral Home, Insurance Associates of the Triad, Cabot Cheese, the Duck Smith House B&B, The North Carolina Zoological Society, Total Wine, Westmoore Family Restaurant, with others joining daily.

The Auction is scheduled for Sunday afternoon, April 25, 2010. The auction begins at 5pm, but the doors of the NC Pottery Center will open at 3:30pm with a preview, appetizers and local, traditional bluegrass music. There is no admission and everyone is welcome!

The North Carolina Pottery Center offers educational opportunities to statewide schools and individuals, changing historical and contemporary exhibitions, demonstrations, and information about statewide potters. The NCPC is a private nonprofit entity, funded primarily through memberships, grants, fundraisers, admissions, and appropriations.

The NC Pottery Center is open Tuesdays – Saturdays 10am to 4pm, ADMISSION (excluding free special events): $2- adults, $1 – students (9th through 12th grades), free – children through 8th grade, and free – NCPC members. The Center is handicap accessible. Groups and tours welcomed.

For further information and details call 336/873-8430, e-mail to (info@ncpotterycenter.org) or visit (www.NCPotteryCenter.org).

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