"It's Just Mud" showcases about 100 items created by six potters in Kershaw Country from the 1940s to the present.

“No matter what you call it, it’s just mud,” is attributed to Guy Daughtery, a potter whose work is featured. His philosophy is echoed in the title of a catalog researched, compiled, and released last year by Porter McLaurin, USC distinguished faculty emeritus of art, and Harvey Teal.

"They had a keen interest in the pottery of the area and had a good list of people and pieces," said Saddler Taylor, folklife curator at McKissick Museum. "They have allowed us to use the catalog as a base for our exhibit. That in itself is unusual: most publications of this sort come out of an exhibit. But this exhibit was based on a catalog."

It's easy to see why: the catalog reveals stunning works from a little-known hotbed of potteries.

From 1920 to 1980, the production of ceramics flourished around the small town of Bethune, S.C. The area has a wealth of natural clay deposits, as well as a history of pottery trade that goes as far back as early Native American wares.

Today, Bethune is known as the primary producer of art clay supplied to schools nationwide than it is for turning wares. But beginning in the 1920s, at least five potteries employed a total of fifteen potters in the Bethune area. Before coming to South Carolina, these men and women worked in potteries throughout the Southeast, bringing with them a wealth of knowledge and experience. The fruits of their work make up "It's Just Mud."

The museum is located on USC's historic Horseshoe and is open 9 a.m.–4 p.m. every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday; 9 a.m.–7 p.m. on Thursdays; and 1–5 p.m. Sundays. For more information, call 7-7251.

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