Jason Sandford
Jason Sandford is a reporter, writer, blogger and photographer interested in all things Asheville.
East Fork Pottery is one of the coolest pottery makers in Western North Carolina. They’re known for their wood-fire, sculptural wares, as they say in the press release, but to me, they’re simply incredible artists. Here’s the press release:
Inspired by their love of entertaining and their relationships with area chefs, local ceramics workshop East Fork Pottery launches a line of contemporary dinnerware as functional and durable as it is beautiful, in a fresh color palette to fit both the modern and traditional home.
The work – which includes plates, bowls, platters, cups, mugs, vases and more – will be available to the public Saturday, April 30th, at 10 am, both online and at their Madison County workshop, 30 minutes north of Asheville. Saturday April 30th from, 10 am to 5 pm, and Sunday, May 1st, from noon to 5pm, join East Fork at their workshop to meet the makers, tour the facility, share snacks and drinks, and purchase pottery.
Chefs Katie Button of Cúrate, William Dissen of The Market Place, and Patrick O’Cain of Gan Shan Station have already been putting the work to use, ensuring that it can stand up to the fast pace of a professional kitchen and complement a variety of plating styles. O’ Cain says, “East Fork and I share philosophies of care and beauty. Guests recognize this seamless marriage and that translates to an enhanced overall experience. The physical space that our respective work shares honors a passion for food, community, and life – and that’s a mission I can subscribe to.” East Fork looks forward to collaborating with chefs in the Asheville area and beyond to create dinnerware to suit their specific needs.
Creative Director Alex Matisse founded the business in 2009 and brought on John Vigeland in 2013. The two potters now run East Fork together, assisted by two apprentices and a small staff. For more information visit their website or follow them on Instagram @eastforkpottery.