Hank Shuler has opened a new clay studio in Oak Grove.

Having retired from Southwestern Community College two years ago, Shuler and her husband, Bruce, decided to design and build the studio.

“It’s been great fun working with Bruce again. Our individual careers took us in different directions so much of the time,” Shuler said.

Shuler’s clay creations range from functional to decorative.

“I guess I really have a short attention span. I enjoy using the wheel and turning more functional pieces, pieces for the kitchen and dining room table,” Shuler said. “But, I also enjoy creating sculpture and the fun of firing in the Japanese raku tradition.”

Shuler’s last five years with the college were spent in SCC’s Swain Center creating a Heritage Arts Program that featured a ceramic component. Her other activities since retirement include the creation of the Smoky Mountain Clay Guild.

“There are a lot of wonderful potters in the region and more and more are coming out of SCC, WCU, and Haywood Community College all the time,” she said. “North Carolina is the pottery capital of the USA and a number of us feel that this region can benefit from the potters joining together to attract marketing attention.

The studio and gallery are open to visitors by appointment.

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