Potters Market at the Mint
September 27, 2025
Crystal King Pottery, Seagrove NC
Crystal King was invited to be a Guest Artist by the Delhom Service League when another potter had to withdraw. Her selection was based on her long history of exhibiting at Potters Market; this will be her 12th appearance at Potters Market.
I use a mixture of local, commercial, and reclaimed stoneware clays. Glazes are a mixture of ash, and layered recipes along with painted under glazes on the figural pieces. I enjoy multiple techniques of firing and use wood, gas, and electric kilns. Pieces are each hand sculpted or wheel thrown.
I stem from ten generations of handed-down tradition in the Seagrove area. Being raised so carries a certain responsibility to maintaining a connection to one's roots while expanding with new inspirations. I feel that it was early life experiences that shaped my unique style, and I want to stay true to that natural source.
My work reflects a simple look into life's most basic ideas: animal, social and religious themes. I make my pieces to evoke a warm emotion in those who behold them. Before finishing each piece, I give special attention to bringing to life its individual character. Over and over this animation is described back to me as 'whimsical'. People announce this usually with a smile on their lips. As an artist I feed off this excitement and enthusiasm toward my pieces. I feel as if the customer's soul is smiling back to mine through the connection we share in loving the same piece....they as the new owner and me as the creator. With twenty years as a full-time potter behind me, I have felt a new direction stirring within me. I am currently working on a whole new line of Bible Story figures, involving more detail and matte finishes. I am excited to be replacing my old collection with a new polished series this year. I believe there will be an excited acceptance of this new line of work along beside my animal sculptures which have been transforming over the years as well. Besides figurative work I also like to offer a selection of functional serving trays and vases decorated with ash glazes and three -dimensional applied flowers. These and my servers with impressed designs have been very popular with current home decorating trends; and appeal to crowds who are looking for a more casual purchase.