Functional Mud Pottery
Welcome to another Geekery Market Spotlight for 2025! Today we feature returning artisan, Functional Mud Pottery.
Sean Robinson took their first pottery class in 2003. They still have the first cup they made. It is an ugly little piece with wonky sides and a very thick base. They took one or two other classes over the next few years, not refining a skill but just as “something to do.” In late 2007, they enrolled at a local university to complete their degree and part of their focus was studio ceramics. They were quickly reminded of the absolute joy of pottery making they experienced 2 years before. They have not stopped the creative and making process since. They love the simple, rustic pottery.
What Else You Should Know About Them:
Describe all the geeky goodness you'll be bringing to the next Geekery Market! What kind of items will you be selling?
We make functional pottery for your inner geek. Mugs, platters, cup and bowls. All with a touch of nerd-dom. Star Wars, Middle earth, World of Warcraft, Pokemon, The Witcher, Star Trek, (and more) themed ceramic wares.
What is something that surprised you about making / selling your wares?
It is great when people are really interested in my work. They touch, they look, they ask questions, they weigh a mug in their hands; sort of a test run. I can chat with them and ask how their day is going. I ask what they have seen at the market, what is their favorite nerd-dom, and maybe what makes them interested in my work, etc. Most often I get the story of how they took a ceramics class in middle school and really enjoyed it. It is absolutely wonderful to connect with a customer on a level beyond just buying and selling. I guess at that point they are no longer just a customer.
What has been one of your favorite stories so far while running your business?
It is always a joy to hear from return customers, some from as far back as 2015 and before. It could be a story about how they love their Functional Mud mug, and are in need of another for their best friend. Sometimes, I get the sad email from someone whose favorite mug has broken and they want to replace it with one of mine. I'm happy to help, and happy to be the one who makes your new favorite mug.
What is an interesting fact about your wares / business that you want to make sure everyone knows?
Functional Mud is veteran owned and operated. My shop is solar powered, and I try to source local clay whenever possible.
Looking over the list of artisans this year, what is one of the booths you are looking forward to visiting?
Nine Tails Two Hands has some really great anime journals (amongst other wares). We met Anna selling at Geeksboro a few years ago. This will be their first time at the Geekery I believe. Nice people. My wife purchased a Ghibli journal that had Jiji on it. Looks just like our cat, Matteo.
Come see them live at The Geekery Market on Saturday, November 15, 2025 from 10am to 4PM at the Cabarrus Arena & Events Center – 4751 NC Highway 49 (Event Center B). The event is FREE to the public, but we are requesting a donation of canned goods or cash which goes to our charity, Second Harvest Metrolina.
This location does charge for parking: $10 per car (credit/debit only). See you there!