OK, I get it. The words “folk pottery” don’t exactly make your blood boil in the same way as the growl of a Harley, designer shoes at 75% off, burning rubber at a NASCAR race, the sound of “Dinner’s ready!” or “Honey, let me do the dishes while you rest … you deserve it!” or chocolate-covered anything.
The Folk Pottery Museum of Northeast Georgia — yes, the one you’ve never heard of — is internationally famous, because it deserves the recognition.
The Smithsonian Institution produced a documentary film about northeast Georgia folk pottery in 1967, focusing on the unique artistry Lanier Meaders, and his family.
The documentary was followed by a Folk Art exhibition in Washington, D.C., where Lanier Meaders’ work — especially his distinctive face jugs — received national recognition.
Folk art doesn’t make noise; it doesn’t have flashing lights; you cannot taste it or (in many cases) touch it. In spite of that, Folk Art is fascinating. The concepts, functions, colors, shapes and sizes are artistically thrilling.
See for yourself on Saturday, February 16, 2013 from 10 AM until 5 PM, when the Folk Pottery Museum of Northeast Georgia holds its Open House.
Museum Director Chris Brooks says, “We encourage particular attention to our temporary exhibition Another Look at Lanier. Although famous for his face jugs, Lanier Meaders produced utilitarian and decorative ware influenced by the training he received from his parents, Cheever and Arie Meaders, and our special exhibition presents examples of this pottery.”
Come see the memorable work of the master artist, Lanier Meaders, the best-known representative of a 200-year tradition of folk pottery in this region.
Rex Hogan and Suzanne Reese of Mossy Creek and Mike Craven of Gillsville, contemporary folk potters, will be demonstrating and selling their wares during the event.
The Folk Museum Open House offers an opportunity to:
- Browse the permanent collection and displays
- Explore regional history
- Hear local musicians performing in the Museum throughout the day
- Observe works of art found nowhere else
Other artwork will be displayed next door at the Sautee Nacoochee Community Center History Museum and Center Gallery.
At the very least, it’s a beautiful drive to Sautee … you’ll get a bit of culture … and Helen is right around the corner, in case you still need a chocolate fix or crave the rumble of a Harley. If you really want to look cool, buy a scary face jug and carry it around town.
Where: The Folk Pottery Museum, 283 Georgia Highway 255, Sautee-Nachoochee, Georgia
Directions: Off GA Hwy 17, four miles from Helen. Turn onto GA Hwy 255 and drive one-quarter mile. The Museum is on the left.
When: Open House Hours are from 10 AM until 5 PM, Saturday, February 16th. Normal hours of operation are 10 AM – 5 PM Monday – Saturday and 1-5 on Sunday.
Cost: Free Admission for the Open House. Normal Admission is $5 adults; $4 seniors, $2 children.
