Pottery is one of the most prolific crafts in Asheville, NC and the western part of the state in the Blue Ridge Mountains. The artistic community, the abundance of raw materials and the artisan tradition attract artists to the area. Birdfoot Ridge Studio, located just north of town, produces a wide range of ceramics, from hand-painted dinnerware to a Zen collection. Here are some of the more unique designs we’ve seen in the Asheville area:
Brie Baker – This shallow round piece with small handles fits in a 5- to 6-inch wheel of brie and bakes right in the pot. He suggests adding some Jack Daniels, brown sugar, and sliced almonds before baking in a 350-degree oven for about 10 minutes. Serve right in the pot, perhaps accompanied by another little shot of Jack.
Garlic Grater – This is a small, flared plate with tall sides, a spout, and a rough, textured bottom. Take whole cloves of garlic and rub them on the bottom of the grating dish, adding a little olive oil and herbs for dipping. Dip straight from the pot or pour into another dish. Why not save that other plate for something else?
Pillow Pot: Here is a pillow shaped pot with three holes at the top to put a flower. It holds water if needed and adds a nice touch to the table. It comes in a variety of colors, some with hand-painted images.
Baker: A nice thick stoneware is perfect for baking. It conducts and retains heat very well, which is why clay ovens bake the best pizzas. This baker creates a nice crust on top and a softer bottom. With this clay bread maker you can rise, bake and serve your bread in the same pot.
Egg Scrambler – A small dish that is rubbed with oil, eggs are cracked and scrambled with seasonings and whatever creative additions you like. Microwave for 30-45 seconds and voila. Great for a single. Who knew you could microwave eggs?
ikebana vases
Birdfoot Ridge Studio also produces a Zen collection that includes a variety of Ikebana-style vases, bamboo candle holders, and water fountains.
Ikebana is a Japanese style of flower arrangement that focuses on clean lines and simple shapes rather than the traditional grouping of flowers that we see in normal Western arrangements. In the ikebana style, the structure that supports the plant is given as much emphasis as the flowers, so choose your vase carefully.
It’s a refreshingly minimalist take on flower arranging and it’s fun to let your imagination run wild with each placement. With less to work with, hosting an ikebana requires mindfulness and keeps you in the present moment, like a form of meditation. Almost anything can be used for an Ikebana arrangement – experiment with sticks, herbs, and leaves in addition to flowers.
Birdfood Ridge Ikebana vases feature minimalist dark glaze and nature-inspired designs. They range from simple arrangements to larger pieces that can be used as oil lamps or to hold water for flowers.
Lee Davis of Birdfoot Ridge Studio has been producing crafts in Asheville for over 30 years and has taught two generations of potters. His work can be seen at the Southern Highlands Craft Fair, held twice a year in the spring and fall, or at local galleries in downtown Asheville, NC. He also participates in the Weaverville, North Carolina studio tour, where he opens his studio to the public.