Women & Clay
In May, our Vault Gallery will showcase an array of ceramics by Outer Banks artists Genevieve Stewart, Lauren Evans, Skyla Lamberto-Egan and Melanie Westheiden.
This exhibition is a compilation of four female ceramic artists who meet regularly to talk about life and inspire each other artistically. The result is a collection of ceramic vessels, bowls, mugs, and wall art fired primarily in electric kilns using a wide variety of styles.
Various clay bodies, intricate glaze applications, along with sgraffito techniques are hallmarks of their work. The group has also explored backyard pit firing together.
Their inspiration comes from nature, travels, Mother Nature and being a woman on this planet.
Show Dates + Opening Reception
Women & Clay will be on display in the Vault Gallery May 3-June 1, 2024.
There will be an opening reception on Friday, May 3 from 6pm to 8pm, where visitors can meet Lauren, Genevieve, Melanie and Skyla and view their work.
The opening reception is during downtown Manteo's First Friday festivities, and is free and open to the public.
Genevieve Stewart
Multidisciplinary artist and former photographer Genevieve Stewart pursues various mediums in search of creative expression and emotional release. Pottery
becomes a surface to explore abstract painting, connections to nature, and mid-century designs. With a growth mindset, she draws from life and everything around her to push the limits of what ceramics can do. Genevieve grew up on
the Outer Banks and now raises her two daughters here.
Melanie Westheiden
Melanie Westheiden is a full time potter living in Nags Head, NC. She has been practicing pottery for 10 years and still loves it. Her love of pottery was born from the many challenges it presents. The best way to learn the process is to fail
and try again. She is inspired by the Outer Banks, nature, traveling, and breakingout of the “traditional pottery” box. Her pieces are made for daily use, to inspire, to bring joy, and to transport you to the places you love.
Lauren Evans
“I believe handmade art tells a story, offering a glimpse into the heart of the artist” says Lauren Evans, a full time ceramic artist in South Nags Head. Traveling internationally, Lauren was inspired when meeting artisans that despite
having so little to work with are making such beautiful items. This inspired her to create a modest at-home studio of her own. Lauren crafts all her pieces, by hand, at her dining room table. Living across the street from the ocean greatly
influences her work.
Skyla
Lamberto-Egan
Born and raised in Manteo, North Carolina, Skyla Lamberto-Egan began throwing pottery through the continuing education program at College of the Albemarle. She enjoys making functional pieces and currently her favorite
technique is utilizing the backyard pit fire to create results that reflect the ever changing nature of the world around us.
