Potters Market at the Mint
September 27, 2025
Turtle Island Pottery, Old Fort NC
Stoneware, fired mid-range in electric, using brushed layers of glazes; our own and commercial. A simple barrel shape is taken off the wheel, then pushed and stretched on the inside with my finger tips, similar to pinch pot technique. Details are sculpted and applied by hand.
Pottery from the arts and crafts movement and art nouveau encompass organic motifs and forms that are eternally pleasing. L.C. Tiffany’s nature ceramics, Minton and Palissy’s creatures and the twists, folds and crazy handles of George Ohr inspire many of the designs we use. Freeman does the basic wheel work while I, (Maggie) create the alterations and details. However, when I work with these forms and details, the intention is propelled by the golden spiral or the Fibonacci sequence in nature. Compound curves, and the delicate balance and visual pleasure of symmetry and asymmetry are a constant challenge. With focus and creativity, our wheel thrown forms become elegant sculpted objects. Our work is a contemporary expression of antique forms. Classical art pottery forms and motifs are expanded upon with our own flare and vision of design. We create bolder color combinations, joyful curves and whimsical adornments to amuse and please the eye.
We work in groups such as the petal vases and tureens that you see here. We also make Umbrella stands and vases with applied flower petals inspired by the folded glass petals of Tiffany windows. Platters and wall pieces loaded with creatures, Palissy style. And George Ohr inspires our small vases embellished with elaborate handles, bright colors and contrasting textures.
We use stoneware clay for versatility and water tightness. We fire in oxidation for the variety in color and texture using many glazes. Each piece is a one of a kind, individually made and sculpted item. We may reproduce a theme but no two are alike.