Demos by NC Potter Sylvia Coppola a Hit

Charlotte area potter Sylvia Coppola of Duck Creek Pottery demonstrated handbuilding with clay at Turning Point Gallery for the 2ndFriday ArtWalk on February 13. Artwalk participants were able to watch her make textured tripod mugs, and a handbuilt vase. She used items such as drawer pulls, napkin rings, buttons, and textured rolling pins to create the unique pieces. People were then encouraged to go inside the gallery to see over 100 pieces in their finished form.

A majority of Sylvia's work is made on the wheel. On Saturday, February 14 she demonstrated wheel throwing and altering for a very appreciative, enthralled crowd. A group of Girl Scouts selling cookies nearby were lucky enough to have the opportunity to earn their clay badges working with a pro as well! Sylvia took a little break from throwing to show them the art of pinch pot making to help them earn their badge. All in all it was an exciting event which inspired those young and old to learn more about pottery making and buy a beautiful pot to enjoy!

Sylvia Coppola - North Carolina potter show opens Feb 13

Turning Point Gallery in Chapel Hill’s University Mall welcomes renowned North Carolina potter Sylvia Coppola, founder of Duck Creek Pottery, to the 2ndFriday ArtWalk Feb. 13 from 6 to 9 p.m. and Feb. 14 from 10 to 1 p.m. Coppola, a potter of 32 years, will incorporate her love of texture from weaving and basket making into the art of pottery. She will demonstrate handbuilding Feb. 13 and wheel throwing Feb. 14.

Sylvia took her first pottery class at Western Carolina University in Cullowhee during the mid-1970s. During that time, she developed a love for clay. She earned a bachelor of fine arts in jewelry and pottery, then took an avid interest in weaving, basket making and pottery. Later she adapted the texture and design of basketry and weaving to her first love, pottery.

Today, Sylvia Coppola’s unique, constantly evolving style incorporates more complex textures, shapes, colors and forms. From car mats to buttons and napkin rings, she transforms everyday objects into tools that help her create exceptional, textured work. This method produces exciting, fresh pieces for collectors to enjoy.

Sylvia Coppola’s pottery creations have led to numerous awards, a vast number of collectors, publications in magazines and books, and the opportunity to teach at workshops and classes. Turning Point Gallery invites you to experience, firsthand, her talent for creating distinctive pieces of art from the earth.