Matthew Kelly Pottery

Matthew started his adventure into ceramics as a freshman in high school. He found his first job as a potter at age 16, working for two traditional Seagrove pottery shops, Holly Hill and JB Cole. In 2013, after almost 20 years as a journeyman potter, Matthew started the adventure of making his own work. Matthew believes in challenging the status quo and pushing the boundaries of excellence in his field. He uses local glaze materials and clay to produce elegant forms that are fired in multiple kilns and atmospheres. Electric, gas, and wood fired kilns are used combined with meticulous slip work and glazing to create decorative and functional works of art. Matthew continues to live and work in the Seagrove area. Matthew’s desire is to inspire the potter and collector alike in his process and finished pieces. YouTube has become one of his favorite platforms to share his process. After finishing construction of his first wood fired kiln in late 2019 Matthew is now hosting kiln opening sales at his studio for sharing his work with collectors. He also has seasonal online sales scheduled for those who may not be local. Matthew has shown his work at Charlotte’s Potters Market Invitational, Hickory’s Catawba Valley Pottery and Antiques Festival, and Seagrove’s Celebration of Seagrove Potters.