Crafting a Tradition
asheboro pottery, culture, denny mecham, north carolina pottery center, seagrove, tradition,
Seagrove has long been known as a pottery lover’s paradise. But what you may not realize is that this peaceful community is home to more than 100 working studios, offering an amazing selection of pottery and ceramic art.
“Seagrove has a unique and ongoing history,” says Denny Mecham, executive director of the North Carolina Pottery Center. “There’s a combination of cultural influences, but I think what really helped set Seagrove apart was the ability of local potters to make the transition from more functional pottery to decorative pieces after the industrial revolution. That ability to change and adapt helped them survive.”
Opened in 1998, the North Carolina Pottery Center pays tribute to the region’s rich heritage through a variety of permanent and changing exhibits, which honor both historic and living potters. Situated on nine acres, the center boasts an expansive gallery, an educational building and also plays host to a number of special events throughout the year.
“The fall is probably our busiest time, but there’s always something going on around here,” Mecham says, adding that the center also provides maps and information about local pottery studios.
“We’re constantly working to make Seagrove more of a destination – and to be sure visitors have the information they need,” Mecham says. “About 54 percent of our visitors come from out of state, and we have people who come back to see us year after year. They enjoy it because it’s an adventure – they can take their time, pack a picnic and just enjoy the ride. People can come here and get a nice overview. They can take a tour, ask questions, pick up a map and then feel pretty comfortable getting out there and visiting the studios on their own.”
Mecham says that this opportunity to visit with artists at work is something that appeals to both seasoned collectors and the casual tourist.
“It doesn’t take much to get a potter to talk about his work,” she says with a laugh. “It’s kind of an international language, and to see such a large and diverse community of potters is really amazing. We have families that have carried on their craft for generations, working together, inspiring each other. Each potter’s work is unique, but there’s such camaraderie. Even the most contemporary potters understand the traditions and demands of the craft, and they seem to embrace the lifestyle offered here.”
Story by Amy Stumpfl
Photo by Jeff Adkins
