Vermont ceramic artists exhibit lesser-known creations at Axel’s
August 3, 2024 | By Whitney Aldrich 
The new ‘Facets’ exhibition shares examples of work by familiar Vermont potters alongside some of their popular pieces as well. Left to right: Jeremy Ayers fine art tile, ‘Reclaim’ by Kate Butt, and ‘Objects’ by Dan Siegel. A reception is planned for Aug. 30.
Vermont potters Jeremy Ayers, Kate Butt and Dan Siegel have worked hard for decades to claim space within your crowded cupboards.
It is because of this hard work and their unique creativity that you likely will recognize their signature pieces upon entry into the gallery.
But oftentimes we know of just one of the many facets of an artist’s work. This new group exhibition, titled “Facets,” on view Aug. 7-Sept. 14 highlights the little-known sides of the ceramicists you have grown to love and may have already invited into your home.
It might be a mug, bowl or platter that you recognize, but step into Axel’s Gallery to discover another side to the work of your beloved potter. You will find the familiar pieces as a backdrop and visual link to the stunning and rich pieces of fine art made from the same clay that has nourished your soul at the dining room table or in the quiet morning hours.
Jeremy Ayers is a utilitarian potter whose practice, Jeremy Ayers Pottery, is based in Waterbury. The large-scale carved wall tiles on exhibit are monumental in size and scale. His intention was to replicate a heavy sheet of metal while showing the clay’s raw edge. Complimentary vessels and bowls were created to spark a dialogue of form and surface between the pieces.
Potter Kate Butt’s works full-time at her K.B. Ceramics studio in Putney. Her installation in the show is titled “Reclaim.” It explores gender, queerness, assigned roles, and limitations within the art world and at large. Traditional vessel forms are combined with non-traditional glazes and textures, presented in a manner that suggests both confinement and its proximity to freedom. These forms attempt to question our perceptions of what is and what isn’t art, and particularly who makes that determination.
Dan Siegel’s art practice is most often rooted in the creation of functional ceramics from his Burlington studio, Ergo Pottery/danmade Pottery. During the quiet moments of his work, or at the end of a throwing session, he often find his hands drifting towards the creation of small, spontaneous objects that have evolved into a distinct body of work. These pieces invite contemplation and interpretation, encouraging an exploration of the boundaries between form and function, intention and spontaneity.
Meet all three artists at a casual reception, 6-8 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 30. They will be on hand to answer any questions and to share their inspiration. Snacks and refreshments will be served. Free.
With the exception of special events, Axel’s is open Wednesday – Friday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturdays 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Whitney Aldrich is the owner of Axel’s Gallery and Frame Shop.