BRIDGTON — Margaret Melanson, a painter and ceramist from Gardiner, Maine, completes the 2021 Guest Artist series at Gallery 302. Her exhibit of stoneware pottery will run from Saturday, December 4 through Friday, December 31. Margaret makes pottery full time and has brought the design and color sensibilities from her background of painting, the cultural influences of her travels, and her
grandmother’s treasured scrap quilts to her ceramic work.

Margaret makes functional stoneware that incorporates her love of simple forms with intricate design work. All her pieces are one-of-a-kind, with each design hand-painted or carved to fit the particular piece. Her carved work matches earth-toned glazes with patterns influenced by motifs from ancient cultures, geometrical designs, and patterns from nature. Her wax resist pieces utilize a more colorful
palette with more fluid, floral, and whimsical designs. Above all else, Margaret focuses on the functionality of each piece she makes – how will this bowl or cup feel in someone’s hand? How will this design complement the food that is placed on it?

A member of United Maine Craftsmen and the Society of Southern Maine Craftsmen, Margaret also shows her work at her studio/shop in Gardiner and online at Seaside Creations on Bailey Island. To see Margaret’s work, visit Gallery 302 at 112 Main St. in Bridgton, Maine. December hours are varied: Sunday – Thurs. 12-4, Friday/Saturday 10-5. Holiday hours are Dec. 11-23, 10-5; Dec. 24, 10-2. For more information, call 207-647-2787 or visit gallery302.com