Each July, thousands of pottery enthusiasts make the trek to southeastern Ohio to celebrate all things pottery. There are festivals with pottery-themed events, meet-ups to purchase or exchange collectable work, and many other ways to enjoy the history and talent that has long been a part of the tradition of the area.
Many of these events focus on the well-known factories from bygone eras, some of the current factories, and those that spanned both periods. What many do not take into consideration is the local talent that produces individual, one-of-a-kind, or limited-edition work. This area is rich with artists and artisans, and ceramicists are a large part of that as well.
As we move towards the celebration of all things clay at Elk’s Eye Art Market, we look at our four available potters: Maddy Fraioli, Theresa Dolen, Linda Secrest, and Paul Barton. These artisans produce works in their own distinct style, presenting both utilitarian and decorative pieces. Whether you are looking for a statement mug, a centerpiece or platter, there is a wide variety of work available.
We invite you to visit Elk’s Eye Art Market at 22 South 4th Street in downtown Zanesville on Monday, Wednesday, Friday or Saturday from 10 am to 6 pm. Upon visiting the Market, you will notice that our potters are in good company, with over 30 fellow juried artists and artisans. As you make your way through the showrooms, the potters will draw you in with a variety of glazes, techniques, and types of work.
Theresa Dolen, of Clay Dragonfly, has pieces commemorating America 250, birdhouses, platters, mugs, vases, and many statement pieces, as well as work you would use around the house every day. Dolen is a popular favorite at local art shows, and likes to complement her offerings with whimsical gnomes, fairies, and seasonal pieces.
Linda Secrest is one of our snowbirds, who, upon returning to Ohio each spring, brings a wide variety of work, from raku to horsehair, and covers platters, bowls, faces, busts, and vases that are all appealing in their unique nature.
Hand-decorated mugs are a popular item from Paul Barton, whose mugs offer everything from whales to plants and owls to bears, and some with textured patterns. He also offers berry bowls, garlic keepers, bean crocks, and other pieces for everyday use. His piggy banks get the attention of our younger patrons.
And rounding out the quartet is Maddy Fraioli, Rose Hill Pottery, who offers refined majolica, porcelain, and stoneware. Maddy’s Fioriware Majolica pieces have long been a staple for many collectors- available as compotes, utensil crocks, bowls, soap dispensers, and the like. She also offers porcelain mugs, stoneware decorative tiles, a wide variety of mixing bowl sets, and pitchers. Her face jugs are a good representation of Appalachian art.
No matter the occasion and purpose, if you are looking for a unique piece for your collection or home, a trip to Elk’s Eye Art Market is a great place to start.
