Our 62nd New Hampshire Antiques Show will include a loan exhibit “Gerry Williams and Friends, Mid-Century Studio Pottery in New Hampshire.” Over 50 pieces made by Williams and others will be on display. Williams (1926-2014), who lived and worked in Dunbarton, NH, was a major presence in the studio pottery world in the last half of the 20th century. He created hundreds, if not thousands of pieces, and was known for developing unique glazes and techniques, which he freely shared. Many of his pieces reflect his pacifist views and were never intended for sale. He taught or mentored numerous men and women who later went on to their own careers in the field and operated a workshop for other potters on his property. In 1972 he founded “Studio Potter” magazine and was its editor for thirty years. 

The most common definition of “studio pottery” would be that it was made by a single potter, perhaps with a small number of helpers, and not meant for mass production.  Often it was a husband and wife team, as was the case with Edwin and Mary Scheier. Various parts of the country developed regional styles and this exhibit will showcase the pottery, becoming quite collectible today, made in New Hampshire. It will include pottery drawn from collections of the Williams’ family, other private collectors and the League of New Hampshire Craftsmen. It would not have been possible without the support of Devin Moisan, Auctioneers Inc. The exhibit will be curated by two daughters of Williams, Shelley Williams Westenberg  and Jennifer Oliver, and Rick Russack.

Collectors visiting New Hampshire for Antiques Week, can also visit the annual Craftsmen’s Fair of the League of New Hampshire Craftsmen, at the Lake Sunapee Resort. It will showcase the work of over 350 craftsmen “creating the heirlooms of tomorrow”. It’s only about 35 miles from Concord and will run from August 3-11, 10 am-5 pm, rain or shine.

Finally, the NHADA is happy to announce David Schorsch and Eileen Smiles will join the New Hampshire Antiques Show as new dealers this year. With combined experience of nearly 70 years in business, David and Eileen are veteran dealers specializing in classic examples of American Decorative Arts of the 18th and 19th centuries with an emphasis on folk art. They maintain a private gallery in the newly restored “Sabbath-day Meeting House” in the historic district of Woodbury, Connecticut, and are exhibitors at The Winter Show in New York City in January and The Philadelphia Antiques and Art Show in April.

Please like and follow the NHADA on Facebook and Instagram @nhantiquesdealers for regular posts and updates. We look forward to seeing you at the 62nd New Hampshire Antiques Show in Manchester on August 8-10!