Rob and Beth Mangum carry on family traditions at Mangum Pottery in downtown Weaverville. Rob’s parents made their careers in pottery with help from their son, who continued to throw pots while home from college. Rob’s father, Robin, sells his work at Mangum-Cater on Mainin Sparta.
Rob and Beth met at the NC State School of Design and have been working together since. Rob earned his MFA from Indiana University; Beth studied fiber at Penland School of Craft. Forged through years of studying the nature of materials, their ceramics process is guided by the clay itself. They opened Mangum Pottery on Main Street in Weaverville in 1998. Here, they strive to find the union between heritage and contemporary design. Both are also old-time musicians, so creativity is an essential part of their daily lives.
Visitors to Mangum Pottery can gain full insight into a working pottery that’s been in operation for more than two decades. Large front windows lend plenty of natural light to a gallery full of multiple lines of work. To go along with functional pottery such as mugs, bowls, pitchers, teapots, and dishware, visitors can also browse ceramic sculpture, instruments, and furniture.
Rob and Beth’s daughter, Leah, also produces her own line: Solita Designs, extending the family tradition to a third generation. Her work takes that tradition into new and different directions. Leah’s work is also on display and for sale in the gallery.
Hours: Monday-Friday 9 am-5 pm, Saturday 10 am-4 pm
