ARTIST INFO
JULIE WIGGINS
Bakersville, NC
CERAMICS | Functional
Penland Affiliation | Penland Student 2012, 2001, 1997
Artist Information | Studio artist; education: BFA East Carolina University (NC), honorary degree Jingdezhen Ceramic Institute (China); exhibitions: Potters of Madison County (NC), Potters Market at the Mint (NC), Spruce Pine Potters Market (NC)
Artist Bio | Julie Wiggins received a BFA in Ceramics from East Carolina University in 2001. Then in 2005, she received an honorary degree from the Jingdezhen Ceramic Institute in China, where she focused her studies on traditional Eastern techniques. After graduating college, she began her ceramic career in Charlotte where she developed a body of work, managed a ceramics studio and helped establish Thrown Together Potters.
Among other awards and grants, she was the recipient of NC Best in Craft from Our State Magazine, Skutt Ceramic Artist of the Year (2016) and 2022 Best in Show at the Potters’ Market at the Mint Museum where she is represented in their permanent collection. Julie’s passion for teaching extends to craft schools, art organizations and community centers nationwide. In 2021, she moved her home and studio to Bakersville, NC tucked into the Blue Ridge Parkway where she lives, makes pots and tends to her enchanted gardens near Penland School of Craft.
Artist Statement | As a studio potter, I make objects of enjoyment that strike a balance between uniquely functional forms and narrative design. Whether hand built using slabs, molds or thrown on a wheel, my porcelain vases, flower blocks, lidded jars, plates, teapots, serving pieces, and more are both playful and aesthetically complete. Nature imagery including flowers, birds, and repeating patterns accent most work. Using transparent glazes, these surface designs stand out clearly yet gently with my inlaid, gestural lines of black and blue slip. Some work also highlights carving patterns, lightly pooled glazes, or thoughtfully designed flares such as asymmetrical edges, decorative coils or clay “buttons,” and distinctive rectangular feet.
