In Focus: ‘Cup North II’ in Brainerd Features Work of 36 Different Potters

The Crossing Arts Alliance in Brainerd is currently hosting its second annual ceramics invitational “Cup North II.”

The exhibition features 36 different artists who each submitted five handmade cups. The artists are mostly based throughout Minnesota, with some from surrounding states like North Dakota and Wisconsin, and one artist from across the pond in the United Kingdom.

Exhibitions like Cup North are becoming more common throughout the art community.

“One of the reasons it’s a common thing is it’s a really fun exhibit to put on,” explained local ceramic artist Nick DeVries. “The cup, the mug, the tumbler: it’s really just a classic form for potters. So there are a ton of potters making them and it’s really fun to share.”

Many potters or ceramic artists mention “the zone,” or a moment where they really lock into their work. And with so many different techniques and styles, that “zone” is different for everyone.

“There are different processes during the making stages,” said DeVries. “There’s wheel throwing or slab building or hand building. Oftentimes those real tactile moments are the moments where people really get invested. Other people like to decorate or to carve. So for me, it’s kind of the in-between phase, the trimming and the finishing where the pot really comes to life, where I could just sit there and do that for hours and hours.”

With 36 different artists comes 36 unique styles of cups. The vast amount of variety allows for an equal amount of conversation, especially among potters.

“When potters get together, they’re all excited,” DeVries added. “Even if their pots are a little different, there’s always something technical to talk about or always like, ‘Ooh, what glaze is that?’ So it’s really part of that mix of the clay community where there’s that big, broad spectrum of approaches, colors, styles.”

The exhibition will be on display until September 28th. Cups from the artists will also be available for sale.