Exploring Artistry and Connection on the Orange County Artists Guild Studio Tour

Step inside the private studios of Orange County's artists, where creative visions come to life. Discover how one afternoon with a local potter reveals the true gift of studio tours: not just touring the studio but finding connection in shared artistic experiences.

By Ron Clabo • Nov 8, 2024

Joe Sink stands beside a display of handcrafted pottery at his Hillsborough, NC studio — Joe Sink of Joe Sink Pottery in Hillsborough, NC, stands in his studio, showcasing his handcrafted tableware during the Orange County Artists Guild Studio Tour.

Last weekend, we went on a tour. My wife and I participated in the Orange County Artists Guild Studio Tour. It’s an annual event where local artisans open their studios, allowing visitors not only to see their creations but also to step inside their unique workspaces.

It’s an opportunity to experience where and how these artists bring their creative visions to life. The journey offers a rare glimpse into their process, revealing the dedication, precision, and passion that shape each handmade piece. Studios are scattered throughout Orange County, turning every visit into a new adventure. Each visit brings you into the artist’s world, revealing stories, inspiration, and distinctive works that reflect their vision.

A display of handcrafted pottery featuring white-speckled ceramic bowls, mugs, plates, and cups. — Joe Sink's handcrafted pottery, highlighting his durable, timeless, dinnerware shapes. Made by Hand in North Carolina. Photo by Ron Clabo.

One of the highlights of our tour was visiting Joe Sink of Joe Sink Pottery, nestled in the woods of Hillsborough. The drive itself was delightful, taking us deeper into the wooded landscape until we arrived at his pottery studio. His specialty lies in crafting tableware—plates, bowls, and cups—with a level of consistency and precision that is truly remarkable. What amazed me most was learning that he shapes each piece entirely freehand.

Initially, I assumed he must rely on jigs or molds to ensure the uniformity of his creations. However, to my surprise, Joe shared that he works entirely without such aids. Every plate and every bowl is shaped through skill and experience, using only a caliper occasionally to ensure size accuracy. Seeing his workspace and kilns brought a deeper appreciation for the mastery of his craft.

Joe's pottery workspace with clay-covered wheels, shelves of pottery, and tools near large windows. — The pottery studio at Joe Sink Pottery, where clay-covered wheels and a wide assortment of pottery tools are ready for making the next inspired creation come to life. Photo by Ron Clabo.

During our conversation, I reminisced about my own unexpected journey into ceramics. While pursuing a degree in computer science at the University of Alaska, I needed to fulfill humanities credits. Many of my peers chose music appreciation, but ceramics sounded more interesting to me. I enrolled, and it quickly became one of my favorite courses. I was so captivated that I took a second ceramics class. What made the experience especially memorable was the freedom to use the studio late at night, a privilege facilitated by seniors with keys who were always eager to welcome passionate learners.

Late-night sessions in the ceramics studio became my refuge after long hours of programming. There, I connected with fellow students like Matt Nesbitt, a talented and creative art major who became a great friend during those years. Matt was always experimenting, and his inventive spirit often drew me into unexpected projects. I fondly recall collaborating with him on a brass base for a pot—soldering scrap brass in the metal studio with a gas torch, all thanks to Matt’s knowledge and access. It was a creative adventure that broadened my horizons and enriched my college experience.

I’ve googled for Matt many times over the years and have yet to reconnect with him. It would be really cool to find him someday and see what he is working on now.

Pottery studio display with tables of ceramic cups, vases, plates, and bowls. — The wide variety of work at Joe Sink Pottery's studio features handcrafted vases, plates, and bowls. The items demonstrate Joe’s dedication to creating functional art that blends elegance and practicality.

Talking with Joe, I discovered a kindred spirit. He smiled knowingly, sharing that he, too, had been a “Matt Nesbitt” in his own college days—a source of inspiration and creativity for those around him. His recollection resonated deeply, bringing back warm memories of growth and exploration in the ceramic studio. Our conversation was about more than pottery; it was a connection built on shared experiences and the joy of artistic pursuit.

Close-up display of white-speckled dinnerware, including bowls, mugs, and vases. — A display of Joe Sink's white-speckled dinnerware, featuring bowls, mugs, and pieces handcrafted with care and precision. These timeless designs blend functionality with a refined aesthetic.

The Orange County Artists Guild Studio Tour reminded me that connecting with artisans isn't solely about admiring their work—it’s about the conversations, the stories shared, and the lives intertwined in moments of genuine connection. I thoroughly enjoyed my time with Joe and look forward to seeing him again in the future.

If you're in the market for durable, timeless, and completely handmade dinnerware, I highly recommend visiting Joe Sink’s studio or seeing him at the Carrboro Farmers Market on Saturdays.