By Gene Galin
Pittsboro, NC – Pittsboro is no stranger to art, with its vibrant community of artisans and craftsmen. However, a recent collaboration has brought local pottery to the forefront of the area’s growing cultural landscape. Renowned potter Mark Hewitt, who has been creating ceramics in the area for over four decades, is now showcasing his work at the newly opened Hampton Inn, a move that bridges the community with both art and commerce.
I had an opportunity to speak with Mark at the Hampton Inn grand opening on Thursday, November 14. Hewitt shared his excitement about having his pottery featured at such a prominent location and explained the behind-the-scenes process that brought his works to life on the hotel’s walls. With his pieces prominently displayed in the lobby, the hotel has become not just a place for travelers but also a gallery celebrating local craftsmanship.
A Collaborative Vision
The journey to having Hewitt’s work displayed in the new hotel started in an unexpected way. According to Mark, the initial connection was made after the hotel’s management team had visited a Hampton Inn in Cary, North Carolina, where his pottery was already featured. “I think they liked what they saw, and that got my name on their list,” Hewitt explained.
However, it was not just a random choice. Local project managers, who had long known Hewitt’s work, advocated for his inclusion. “One of our early project managers mentioned my name, and that’s how the whole thing came about,” he continued. The result was a carefully curated display of his pottery, which blends a variety of traditional and modern styles that reflect both global influences and the rich history of North Carolina pottery.
Hewitt, along with hotel designers and Malcolm Bryant, the developer behind the Hampton Inn project, worked to choose pieces that would complement the hotel’s aesthetic. Over time, a vision began to take shape, one that would combine the beauty of his artwork with the welcoming atmosphere of the hotel. “It’s been a wonderful experience all around,” Hewitt said with a smile.
His pottery, known for blending global influences with North Carolina’s historic ceramic traditions, was carefully curated to reflect the hotel’s local community-driven approach. The installation highlights not only Hewitt’s large, iconic pots but also his smaller, everyday functional pieces, drawing admiration from both the public and the artistic community.
Artistry at the Center of Pittsboro’s Development
The new Hampton Inn, part of the larger Chatham Park development, follows a unique mandate requiring new buildings to incorporate art by local Chatham County artists. This requirement has allowed the hotel to feature an array of work by local creatives, showcasing Pittsboro’s dedication to its cultural roots. Hewitt’s installation, prominently displayed in the lobby, is one of the centerpieces of this initiative.
“I must give credit to the Hampton Inn and developer Malcolm Bryant for deciding to feature Chatham County artists,” Hewitt remarked, adding that this choice benefits the community by bringing visibility to local artists. Bryant, whose commitment to incorporating local art was clear from the outset, had shared this vision when the hotel project broke ground several years ago.
“Representing the community is essential,” Bryant said in a previous interview, “and we wanted our hotel to reflect that vision in a meaningful way.”
Mark Hewitt: A Potter’s Journey and Process
Hewitt, who has been a part of the Pittsboro arts community since 1983, is known for his synthesis of various global ceramic styles. Inspired by traditional pottery forms from places as far afield as China and West Africa, as well as European influences, Hewitt’s work is unmistakably modern yet deeply rooted in history. His pieces often feature elements unique to North Carolina’s ceramic heritage, such as the Catawba Valley style of glaze and ornamentation.
“My work is really a synthesis of global pottery traditions,” Hewitt explained. “The shape of the vases you see here echoes forms used for water jars across various cultures. Even though this is new work, it’s infused with a long history.”
Hewitt’s passion for pottery extends beyond aesthetics; functionality is central to his craft. His smaller pieces, such as mugs and plates, embody his philosophy of art as a part of daily life. “Not everyone can afford a big pot, but a mug is something that people can use daily. They’re having coffee with me every morning, in a sense,” Hewitt said during our discussion.
Creating the Display: A Collaborative Effort
Bringing Hewitt’s work into the new Hampton Inn was a collaborative process that took several months. It involved careful curation with the hotel’s designers, including input from developer Malcolm Bryant. Together, they selected pieces that would fit the space and aesthetic of the hotel while reflecting the spirit of Chatham County.
“We made some selections and had a really fun time installing it a couple of weeks ago,” Hewitt recalled. He noted the importance of the installation’s prominent location within the hotel, making it accessible and enjoyable for guests.
Art and Community Connection: The Heart of Hewitt’s Work
For Hewitt, the opportunity to display his work within a local establishment goes beyond mere recognition; it’s a way to connect with his community on a deeper level. The new installation marks a significant milestone in his career and allows him to share his love for pottery with an even broader audience.
“I’m really pleased to be part of it all,” Hewitt said, noting that this project aligns well with the artistic vision he’s cultivated over the years. He emphasized how these projects contribute to a larger sense of community, bridging the gap between the artist and the public.
In addition to his hotel display, Hewitt is also preparing for his upcoming annual sale, set to begin on Black Friday. As he prepares for the event, he looks forward to seeing familiar faces and welcoming new fans of his work into his Pittsboro studio.
A Legacy of Local Art
Hewitt’s installation is just one example of how local art has become a defining feature of Pittsboro’s development. The town has long been known for its dedication to the arts, and the Hampton Inn’s incorporation of local work is a testament to that legacy.
“We’re trying to represent the area’s unique identity, and it’s fantastic to see this hotel bring that to life,” said another local artist featured at the hotel. “It’s not only a source of pride for us but also for the community as a whole.”
With a tradition stretching back nearly four decades, Hewitt’s pottery reflects both his personal journey and the broader heritage of North Carolina craftsmanship. His pieces are widely celebrated for their combination of practicality and beauty, an approach that has earned him a loyal following and solidified his place as a fixture of Pittsboro’s art scene.
Looking Ahead
Hewitt’s studio, located just a short drive from the hotel, continues to be a beacon for pottery enthusiasts. His annual sales offer a range of pieces, from large vases to more affordable mugs and plates, allowing visitors to take home a piece of Pittsboro’s history and Hewitt’s creative legacy.
“Each piece is a reflection of the community, a synthesis of history, tradition, and my personal voice,” Hewitt said, inviting locals and travelers alike to explore his work.
As Pittsboro grows and new businesses continue to embrace local artistry, the town’s identity as an arts community only deepens.
Watch my conversation with Mark Hewitt on YouTube – Local potter Mark Hewitt talks about his pottery on display at new Pittsboro Hampton Inn – 11.14.24
00:14 Mark Hewitt’s artwork is prominently displayed at the new Hampton Inn.
- The collaboration began after hotel managers discovered Hewitt’s work at another location and contacted him.
- Hewitt worked with designers to select and install pieces that complement the hotel’s aesthetic.
01:38 Local artists’ work enhances community representation at Hampton Inn.
- The hotel features art from various Chatham County artists, creating a local cultural atmosphere.
- Chatham Park’s budget requirement mandates inclusion of local art, promoting community identity in new developments.
02:57 Mark Hewitt discusses the significance of functional pottery in daily life.
- Hewitt emphasizes the intimate connection people have with functional pottery like mugs, making art a part of everyday routines.
- He aims to create monumental mugs that are accessible, allowing everyone to engage with his pottery on a daily basis.
04:16 Mark Hewitt’s pottery combines global traditions with local North Carolina elements.
- His work features influences from global pottery styles, including Chinese and West African designs.
- The unique glazing techniques reference North Carolina’s pottery heritage, incorporating abstract floral motifs and historical materials.
05:48 Mark Hewitt discusses the labor and experience behind creating his pottery.
- The large pot weighs approximately 175 lbs and takes around two and a half days to create.
- Hewitt emphasizes that his 69 years of life experience contribute significantly to his artistry and creativity.
07:06 Mark Hewitt discusses pottery sales and community engagement.
- Hewitt enjoys creating flatware for its decorative possibilities and showcases his hollow ware.
- Upcoming pottery sales on Black Friday and during the Chatham County Studio Tour foster connections with customers, making the events feel like family reunions.
08:33 Mark Hewitt discusses pottery offerings and his wife’s support in the business.
- Hewitt provides a range of pottery items for various price points, enhancing customer accessibility.
- His wife Carol plays a critical role in managing operations and coordinating sales, highlighting strong teamwork.
09:57 Mark Hewitt highlights his unique pottery available for purchase.
- Hewitt’s pieces are one-of-a-kind, reflecting his artistry and local history, unlike mass-produced items.
- He has been operating in Pittsboro since 1983, celebrating 40 years of pottery creation and numerous firings.