The new exhibit “Stanley Mace Andersen: Reflections and Possibilities - Work in Progress 1978-2024” is on display now at the Toe River Arts Gallery in Spruce Pine.
The exhibition features the work of Stanley Mace Andersen, who has been working in his studio in Mitchell County for over 40 years. The exhibition will run through Sept. 14.
Andersen attended the University of Iowa and graduated in 1967 with degrees in philosophy and sociology. After traveling in Europe for a year, he moved back to Iowa City and began working informally in clay while also working toward a degree in library science. He went on to study ceramics at Rhode Island School of Design, receiving an MFA in 1978.
From 1979 to 1984, he was an artist-in-residence at Penland School of Craft. In 1984, he and his wife moved to an old mountain farm they purchased near Penland School. He set up his studio and has been working there since.
Andersen works with earthenware clay and focuses primarily on making utilitarian ware for the table and kitchen. He uses the majolica technique in decorating his pottery, which is fired in an electric kiln to cone 03. He wants his pottery to contribute to the enjoyment of preparing and presenting food. He paints quickly and directly on the raw glazed surface, creating liquid flowing lines, splashes of color, and overlaps of brushstrokes.
Andersen’s continued use of this technique has evolved over time. The final product is important, but he says that “it is the process where I am most likely to find inspiration.” The exhibition will show the evolution of his work, with pieces from past to present.
Toe River Arts is located at 269 Oak Ave. Gallery and gift shop hours are 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday.
For more information, visit toeriverarts.org or call 765-0520.