The Mountaineer

June 4, 2025

A new Haywood County Arts Council exhibit titled “Form” explores how artists use shape, volume and physical presence to express ideas across a variety of mediums, on display at the Haywood Handmade Gallery in downtown Waynesville this month.

From sculpture and ceramics to painting and photography, “Form” highlights how artists across a variety of media interpret structure, depth and volume. The exhibit invites viewers to consider the many ways form shapes their experience of art — literally and emotionally.

Ceramic artist Janice Alexander reflects on the emotional and tactile impact of working in clay.

“The feel of clay in my hands, and the expanse of what can be done with it, continues to inspire me. I love that clay allows me to use form and texture to make functional, useful, and sculptural objects,” Alexander said. “I especially enjoy its versatility and responsiveness in capturing a memory of a dearly loved companion. If I can bring about a smile or positive emotion with my art — that is the best I can do.”

Meanwhile, artist Judy Kish explores a new medium of encaustic, painting with hot wax colored with pigment.

“After seeing some beautiful encaustics by an artist in Seattle, I decided to take some of my eco prints and give it a try. The end result was very interesting. I love the depth that it creates,” she said.

Jeweler Jacob Hoke, of Jacob’s Jewelry, approaches form through heat and metal.

“These hammered copper or brass leaf pendants were colored by heat alone, rather than chemical patina. I enjoy looking at shapes in nature and how they change through the seasons,” Hoke said.