Each year, Our State celebrates the very best in North Carolina craftsmanship with the Made in NC Awards. Meet the five talented artisans who won top honors in 2020 — and watch them at work.
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The Burls of Bakersville
An injury led a former factory worker and lumber salesman to a new career as an artist. Known today as The Bowlmaker, he gives fallen trees in Mitchell County their own second chances.
Made in NC: Goat Lady Dairy
A legendary Climax dairy farm’s natural-rind goat’s milk cheese — which pairs perfectly with charcuterie — won the top prize in the Food category of the 2020 Made in NC Awards.
Made in NC: Nicholas Nichols Knives
A Leland bladesmith’s masterfully crafted chef’s knife made with wood salvaged from the deck of the USS Battleship North Carolina won him the top prize in the Home & Garden category of the 2020 Made in NC Awards.
Quiz: How Much Do You Know About North Carolina’s Wood-Carvers?
In North Carolina, wood-carvers transform an ordinary material into works of art — chiseling, whittling, and sculpting magnificent creations that reflect the state’s landscapes and wildlife.
Made in NC: Opie Way
Stylish leather sneakers that are cut, fit, and stitched by hand in Asheville won first place in the Style category of the 2020 Made in NC Awards.
Made in NC: Motyl Pottery
An Asheville ceramic artist’s love for nature and her dedication to authenticity is reflected in her stunning pottery made from wild North Carolina clay, which won her the top prize in the 2020 Made in NC Awards.
Made in NC: Troutman Chair Company
Troutman Chair Company rockers have been swaying for nearly a century, so it’s hardly surprising they swayed the judges’ hearts and won first place in the Home & Garden category of Our State’s Made in NC Awards.
Made in NC: Blue Mountain Bowls
At Blue Mountain Bowls, the Overall Winner of Our State’s 2017 Made in NC Awards, local trees are given a new life as one-of-a-kind art pieces.
