About David & Barbara Ballesty

Handcrafted in the Blue Ridge Mountains

Nestled in the beautiful Artists Alley of Blowing Rock, North Carolina, Blowing Rock Pottery is the creative home of artists David and Barbara Ballesty. What began as a chance encounter with local art has blossomed into a passionate pursuit of pottery craftsmanship that spans over two decades.

Our Journey

When Barbara and David moved to Artists Alley in 1999, they weren't artists. Their pottery journey began unexpectedly when they discovered an art show happening in their neighborhood. Intrigued by the creativity surrounding them, they decided to take a pottery class at Doe Ridge Pottery in Boone.

What started as a casual interest quickly developed into a passion. After completing their initial class, David, formerly a technology professional who worked on the Y2K conversion at Bank of America, invested in equipment to begin their pottery practice. Their skills developed further after connecting with talented neighbors including Herbert and José, established artists who mentored them in developing their craft.

Our Distinctive Styles

Though they work as a team, David and Barbara each bring unique artistic visions to their work:

Barbara's Style:
Barbara creates functional pottery with thoughtful design elements, particularly her distinctive mugs and cups that feature unique construction to keep beverages warmer longer. Her pieces often incorporate rabbit inlays and special ridges that trap condensation, preventing heat from escaping.

David's Style:
David's work features textured vases with an "art deco" aesthetic and old Italian, Spanish and Moorish influences reflected in his color choices and styling. His pieces demonstrate meticulous attention to detail and a sophisticated sense of form. Architectural ceramics, Sgraffito, and Pedestal art and other installations are his future.

Our Place in the Community

The Ballestys are proud to be part of Artists Alley, a tightly-knit creative community that has flourished in Blowing Rock for over 60 years. This legendary enclave has been home to numerous renowned artists since the late 1950s, creating a rich artistic heritage that continues to thrive today.

Together, David and Barbara create both decorative and functional pottery, offering custom pieces for practical needs and aesthetic enjoyment. Their work includes serving vessels, dinnerware, vases, and decorative sculptures.

Visit Our Studio

We welcome visitors to our studio in Artists Alley, just minutes from downtown Blowing Rock off Highway 221. Come experience the magic of handmade pottery and discover pieces that combine beauty with function—crafted with care in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

"Made by Hand in the Blue Ridge Mountains"

Services and history

We are artists who believe in the common person