The Gatehouse Coffee Shop & Mercantile in Morris will host an art opening for ceramic artist Elizabeth Nields on Friday, December 5, from 4 to 6 p.m. The event also celebrates the artist’s birthday, with guests invited to meet Nields, enjoy light refreshments, and view her work, which will remain on display throughout December. For more information, visit thegatehouseny.com. (Photo by Jenny Riffle)

MORRIS — The Gatehouse Coffee Shop & Mercantile, 129 Main Street, Morris, will host a special art opening on Friday, December 5, from 4 to 6 p.m. featuring beloved local ceramic artist Elizabeth Nields. The event is free and open to the public.

This December exhibition highlights the depth and breadth of Nields’ decades-long career in clay. Known for her sophisticated handling of texture, form, and firing technique, her work spans both sculptural ceramics and functional pottery made to enrich everyday life. The installation will showcase bowls, serving pieces, tableware, and Raku-fired vessels reflecting her uniquely expressive and timeless aesthetic.

In addition to the exhibition, visitors will discover a limited series of custom holiday gifts designed by Elizabeth exclusively for The Gatehouse. These pair her handcrafted ceramics with both local and international specialty goods—collections that celebrate the function, spirit, and beauty of her work. Among the featured items is the shop’s top-selling Artichoke Baker Gift, a handcrafted oven-safe ceramic bowl paired with The Gatehouse’s best selling Warm Artichoke Dip, finished with an olive wood knife and ribbon. These thoughtful gifts highlight Elizabeth’s commitment to artful, intentional living and her collaboration with makers near and far.

The opening also serves as a celebration of Elizabeth’s birthday, offering friends, neighbors, and longtime admirers a chance to honor her creative legacy. Guests are invited to meet the artist, enjoy light refreshments, and experience the warmth of The Gatehouse as it honors one of the region’s most cherished makers.

Since opening in 2023, The Gatehouse has become a dynamic hub for food, art, and culture, hosting exhibitions, workshops, live performances, and seasonal gatherings that foster community and creativity. The December feature continues this mission by showcasing artists whose work meaningfully contributes to the region’s cultural landscape.

“Elizabeth’s work has shaped our local arts community for decades,” said co-owner Tim Atticus. “Her dedication to craft and her gift for elevating everyday objects make her a truly exceptional artist. We’re honored to celebrate her work—and her birthday—here at The Gatehouse.”

Elizabeth Nields’ ceramics will remain on display and available for purchase throughout the month of December.

For more information, visit www.thegatehouseny.com.

— Information from Jenny Riffle, The Gatehouse Coffee Shop & Mercantile