Fred Johnston
North Carolina

Ceramic
Functional
10.5"w x 7.5"l x 9.75"h

About the Teapot
Hand thrown with local clay, wood-fired and glazed with copper and salt.

About the Artist
Fred learned to make pots in the Seagrove area in the 1980s. Working odd jobs across various potteries, he spent time with many of the old Seagrove pottery families, including Owen Teague, Chrisco, and McCanless. These early experiences became the catalyst for his commitment to—and passion for—the pottery vernacular, shaping both his education and his artistic journey.
After attending Montgomery Community College, Fred continued his studies at the New York State College of Ceramics at Alfred University, where he earned a BFA with honors. He later received his MFA from the College of Arts and Architecture at Penn State University.
Fred and his wife, Carol Gentithes, established Johnston & Gentithes Art Pottery in Seagrove, NC, where they create and sell their work. His pottery is exhibited nationally and is included in the permanent collections of the North Carolina Pottery Center, the Hermitage Museum, and the Mint Museum.

Artist Statement
My origins in clay are rooted in the southern folk pottery traditions of North Carolina. Growing up in the rural south has given me access to its colorful history and characters, which serves as a catalyst for ideas. Yet my work also draws from many cultures: Greek, Korean, Chinese, Pre-Columbian, European, and Mimbres. The idea of dipping my ladle in many historical and cultural wellsprings is an adventure, my journey.

*Teapots that are purchased will remain on display in the gallery for the duration of the exhibition, through September 14, 2026.
After the show closes, teapots will be carefully packed and shipped by September 28, or they may be picked up at the gallery.