November 2011

Sunset River Marketplace in Calabash, NC, Offers Works by Charles Chrisco

Sunset River Marketplace in Calabash, NC, is presenting an exhibit of raku pottery by Charles Chrisco, on view through Dec. 3, 2011.

Chrisco, was born and raised in the Seagrove/Jugtown area of North Carolina, a region long recognized for its extensive pottery heritage. He studied pottery at Montgomery Technical Institute in Troy, NC, and the Sawtooth Center for Visual Design in Winston-Salem, NC.

Chrisco has been working with raku since 1981, and earn many accolades for his unique artistry including several Best In Show awards and Best Pottery and First Place awards.

Raku by Chrisco is distinctive for its brilliant red color, crackle glaze and geometric striping around the pieces.

Ginny Lassiter, gallery owner says, “Charles’ work is simply stunning – very contemporary and sophisticated pieces, yet the work is so classic it blends beautifully into every environment.”

The art of raku pottery originated in sixteenth century Japan by a Korean immigrant who settled in Kyoto and married a Japanese woman. The word raku translates to felicity or great happiness, a title that was bestowed upon the earliest raku wares by the reigning ruler of Japan.

Once the bisque-fired pots are decorated, they are hand-brushed and covered with a transparent crackle glaze and refired. The glazed pots are removed from the kiln while glowing hot, placed in a combustible material and allowed to smoke. As the smoke penetrates the cracks, it causes a gray network of lines to develop in the glaze. When the pots have cooled, they are scrubbed clean and finished with a black stain. Due to the spontaneous nature of raku firing, each piece becomes unique in its design and cannot be duplicated.

Sunset River Marketplace showcases work by approximately 200 North and South Carolina artists, and houses some 10,000 square feet of art work in virtually every genre. Custom framing, painting and pottery classes and art workshops are also offered through the gallery. Since opening its doors in 2002, Sunset River Marketplace has supported not only the visual arts, but literary and performing arts, as well. The gallery has become a popular community center and art hub for both NC’s Brunswick County and nearby Horry County, SC. Community programs include the interactive Creative Exchange series on second Wednesdays during selected months and Coffee With the Authors on first Thursdays Sept. through May. A brand new monthly Creative After Hours on Monday evenings began on Oct. 10.

For further information check our NC Commercial Gallery listings, call the gallery at 910/575-5999 or visit (www.sunsetrivermarketplace.com). For daily updates and late-breaking news, “like” the gallery’s Facebook page.

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