Heartwood Gallery, located at 22 East Main Street in Saluda, is holding a reception for its Focus on Four exhibit on Saturday, October 9 at 5:30 p.m.

Heartwood Gallery is celebrating its 25th year of selling American craft with a reception and show spotlighting four regional potters. This show will feature special work by four western North Carolina potters, Emily Reason Marshall, N.C.; Sarah Wells Rolland Canton, N.C.; Karen Newgard Asheville, N.C.; and Robin Bryant Kirby Saluda, N.C.

Emily Reason says, As a potter, I focus my work on principles of craftsmanship and beauty. I am interested in the function of forms and the decorative surface that they lend themselves to.

I am passionately drawn to the new thing; the yet completed idea. It has always been the way with me. I start with an idea, take a lump of clay and the creative flow is released. Pushing the clay to the limit, to the edge where the pot is almost lost; this is where I live as an artist and I love it, says Sarah Wells Rolland.

Karen Newgard says, Growing up in spirited south Louisiana gave me a sense of celebration and festivity. I strive to make a pot that brings a joyous aspect to an everyday ritual. The sgrafitto carving technique developed in the eastern Mediterranean, where they used imagery from their everyday experiences. This idea of using icons from daily life has always been an integral part of my work.

Robin Bryant Kirby says, I intend my pottery to be elegant as well as functional. I am inspired by the mountains and the sky around me, the growth patterns and color variations of flowers and the copper ware of the early twentieth century.

Visit Heartwood Gallerys website at www.heartwoodsaluda.com for more information about their American Craft Week events or contact them at 828-749-9365.