News Summary
The 13th Annual Face Jug Show is about to begin at American Folk Art & Framing in Asheville, NC. Kicking off online on May 7, with in-person access starting May 9, this celebration of face jug pottery features a mix of emerging and established artists, including Wayne Hewell. The exhibition runs until May 28, showcasing the rich tradition and diverse artistry behind face jugs. A special reception on May 9 will allow attendees to connect with artists and enjoy the eclectic artworks on display.
Exciting Artistic Showcase Awaits in Asheville!
Asheville, NC, is buzzing with excitement as the 13th Annual Face Jug Show prepares to take center stage at American Folk Art & Framing (AFA)! This year’s exhibition promises to be a delightful mix of fresh talent and seasoned artisans, all coming together to celebrate the unique tradition of face jug pottery.
Mark Your Calendars!
The online premiere kicks off on Wednesday, May 7, at 11 a.m.. For those eager to snag a piece after browsing through the online collection, phone sales will begin at noon on the same day. But wait, the show doesn’t stop there! The gallery itself will open its doors for in-person visits starting on Friday, May 9, also at 11 a.m..
To celebrate the opening, a special reception will be held on the evening of May 9 from 5 to 8 p.m.. It’s a perfect opportunity to mingle with artists and fellow art lovers while appreciating the eclectic range of face jugs on display. This vibrant exhibition will be available for viewing until May 28, giving everyone plenty of time to check it out!
A Showcase of Talent
This year’s show features an impressive lineup of fourteen talented potters, blending both new faces and familiar names. A highlight of the event is prominently featured artist Wayne Hewell, who comes from a long line of farmers and potters in Georgia. Hewell’s face jugs are known for their witty and whimsical elements, such as playful cigars and amusing facial expressions. With over 20 years of participation in AFA’s events, Hewell always brings something special to the table, and this year he is set to unveil a collection of his latest creations, including out-of-the-ordinary stack jugs.
Alongside Hewell, other notable potters like Steve Abee, Mike Ball, Carl Block, Walter Fleming, Michael Gates, Stephen Harrison, Joel Huntley, Stacy Lambert, Vicki Miller, Ben J. North, and Tim Whitten will also grace the exhibit with their works. Newcomers this year, Feliciano Abaurre from Dallas, GA, and Brad Ledbetter from Charleston, SC, will be showcased, adding an invigorating twist to this beloved event.
A Glimpse into History
The tradition of face jugs has deep roots in Southern culture, with the first known creations emerging in the mid-1800s in Edgefield, SC, thanks to the craftsmanship of enslaved Black potters. Despite a few ups and downs in popularity over the years, face jugs continue to hold a cherished place in the South’s artistic heritage, making them highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Join in on the Fun!
The American Folk Art & Framing gallery is nestled at 64 Biltmore Avenue in beautiful Asheville, NC. If you’re eager to explore these amazing artworks and immerse yourself in the captivating world of face jugs, the gallery is open Monday through Saturday, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.. To find out more details, visiting the gallery’s website or giving them a call at 828.281.2134 is a great way to get more information!
As the excitement builds for this year’s exhibition, surely, art lovers in Asheville and beyond will find something special at the Face Jug Show. Whether you’re an avid collector or just someone who appreciates unique art, this celebratory event is not to be missed!
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Additional Resources
- The New York Times: Hurricane Helene in Asheville
- Wikipedia: Folk Art
- Andscape: The Complicated History of Face Jugs
- Google Search: Face Jug Pottery
- Asheville Made: Facing Forward
- Antiques and the Arts: Folk Pottery Extravaganza
- Google News: Face Jug Art
