The annual Central Virginia Artisans Studio Tour is this weekend, November 14-15, from 10am to 5pm, and at least five of the participating studios are either in or very near our neighborhood (see the map at right). Details about each studio and artist can be found here and a map showing all participating studios can be found here.
Please support local artisans!
Some neighborhood artisans
Tom Clarkson
Longtime neighborhood resident Tom Clarkson, the longtime director of the ceramics program at Piedmont Virginia Community College, has been making beautiful pottery for the last 40 years. He will be exhibiting his pottery in Studio 12 in our neighborhood (1213 Meriwether Street — 2 houses up from 13th Street).
In the online Studio Tour Guide, Tom writes
I still feel I’m learning about its endless possibilities. In addition to my ongoing commitment to produce fine, functional vessels, I try to capture the wet-plastic nature of the wet clay in the finished piece. I use a runny, active wood ash glaze to enhance the textured surfaces. I seek a harmony between form, surface, and function.”
Lynda Filbert will be joining Tom in Studio 12. Lynda is a Charlottesville-based sculptor whose artistic practice is deeply rooted in the celebration of the female form and the narrative of human evolution. You can read more about Lynda Filbert here.
Jocelyn Sandberg
Another of the featured artisans is former and current neighborhood resident Jocelyn Sandberg who will be exhibiting her jewelry in Studio 13, which is on East Market Street just past Firefly (1304 E Market Street, Suite T. see full studio map).
In the online Artisans Studio Tour Guide, Jocelyn says
I cast actual plants, transforming parts from deconstructed flowers, leaves and stems into lasting jewelry. Each piece preserves a moment that would otherwise be temporary. My hope is that these pieces encourage curiosity, observation, and a renewed connection to the natural world. By carrying these fragments of nature with us, we are reminded to slow down, step outside, and have a new encounter with our daily surroundings.”
Gabriel Ofiesh
Gabriel Ofiesh will be exhibiting in Studio 11 (908 East High Street). Gabriel makes 18k gold and silver jewelry with both faceted and cabochon gems, as well as his patented orbit collection.
In the online Artisans Studio Tour Guide, Gabriel says
When I’m making a piece of jewelry, I think about rhythm and balance—but also about unexpected details; things that move, flash, hide, or surprise. Using precious metal forms, fine gems, and small diamonds, I aspire to find that surprise in each piece I make.”
