University of Mount Olive Ceramics Show to feature local artistry
MOUNT OLIVE — The University of Mount Olive will host a Ceramics Show entitled, “A Celebration of Creativity and Craftsmanship.” The opening reception will be held from 4-6 p.m. on Thursday, October 12 in Laughinghouse Hall located at 500 Herring Drive on the Mount Olive campus. The show will run through October 29. The exhibition will feature the works of Mary Ann Barwick, Frank Grubbs, and Emily Figueras.
Mary Ann Barwick of Calypso is an accomplished potter known for her dedication to pushing the expressive qualities of clay. Drawing inspiration from her lifelong love of art and her remarkable 31-year career as an art educator, Barwick opened Starry Night Studios in Calypso. Her creations often incorporate multiple methods of building, with an emphasis on textural and sculptural elements.
UMO Instructor of Ceramic Art Frank Grubbs has a commitment to artistic exploration that results in a continuous evolution of his work. Grubbs maintains a studio/gallery at his home in Smithfield, where he shares his passion for art with people of all ages.
Emily Figueras of Goldsboro is a full-time artist in Eastern North Carolina. Her artistic pursuits encompass wheel-thrown pottery, printmaking, stained glass and more. In 2020, during the challenges of the pandemic, Figueras embarked on the journey of entrepreneurship by establishing her own small business called Fragments and Fig. Her mission is to craft usable, everyday beautiful pieces that bring joy to people’s lives.
“The upcoming show promises to be a captivating exploration of the diverse and innovative world of ceramic artistry,” said Grubbs.
The event is FREE and open to the public.
