Some Saturdays can be as crazy as a Monday morning. Today was just that. It was the “Kiln Opening” for Master Potter, Daniel Johnston. Although I had never witnessed such an event, I had determined it was going to be similar to the opening of a showroom sale for interior designers. Having experienced the madness of such, my heart raced as I turned up the gravel road towards Daniel’s studio.
With a gaggle of parked cars insight, there wasn’t any doubt that I had arrived at the right place. Daniel and his talented wife, Kate, live and create their art in the quintessential “potter’s atelier”. It is an enclave of log-framed buildings nestled on a hillside near Pond Mountain and the Uwharrie National Forest. Pure charm abounds. It is no wonder that this is their chosen spot for creating their art. In such a calmative setting, a feeling of peace prevailed the moment I stepped out of the car.
Before me, arranged on the lawn like sculptures in a museum, was a portion of the pottery pieces for sale. Each vessel sat upon a wooden plinth demanding attention. It was truly a stunning sight to behold. Daniel is quite well known for the scale of work he produces. Today’s kiln opening event did not disappoint. They were stunning--ranging from 36”-65” in height. Their perfect shape, finish, and texture were testament to the skilled hands that made them.
Slowly, I sauntered around each piece--touching the finish and noticing the way the sunlight would spark the luminescence of their glaze. As it was morning and the sun was continuing its rise, the pots seemed to dance within the light. It was near magical.
The pottery studio was lined with available wares. It was amazing to see all of this fine work gathered and displayed within the setting it was created. The dirt floors and log walls supported the "earthen" nature of the product. To think....all of these incredible sculptures, vessels, dinnerware, and on, began as simple mud!
Within easy view was the kiln. It is enormous. But it would have to be, in order to accommodate such large-scale masterpieces. “My apartment in New York wasn’t much larger than this," I thought to myself as I peered into the cavernous chamber.
What was most evident, as you looked around this collection of wares, was that this is not just a "hobby". This is a passion and dedicated career for both Daniel and Kate. Each displayed item was more than just a "piece for sale".... in addition, it had a little bit of their soul attached to it. The artists' eyes easily conveyed this with each inquiry. Pride and humility were tandem. I believe that is what makes this art form so special.
Daniel is highly regarded by his colleagues, collectors, and fellow potting enthusiasts. His paramount skills are the result of priceless training with such masters as Mark Hewitt (United States), Clive Bowen (United Kingdom), and Sawein Silakhom (Phon Bok, Thailand). His work has been sought after the world over. This expertise, combined with his kind demeanor, make him a star.--I was most honored to be present this morning.
With selections in hand, I headed back to my car. A feeling of satisfaction had erased the morning's angst. I knew, without a doubt, VALOR American Home is proud to have Daniel and Kate among its family of artisans.
This was a Moment in America.
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