I was recently invited to participate in an online interview to share my experience as a ceramics artist. The interview is with ABM Wholesale Indonesia; a new company specializing in one-of-a-kind, handcrafted home decor, kitchen and dining ware. They asked some very important questions, such as what is the role of an artist in today’s society? And should art be funded publicly? Here is the interview in full. An Artist Uncovered: Ceramic Artist, Amelia Johannsen Who are you and what do you do? My name is Amelia Johannsen. I’m originally from Portland, Oregon, USA and I have been living and working in Barcelona since 2005. I have been involved in a variety of startup projects and non-profit organizations over the years. I met wonderful people and learned a great deal from those experiences, but was disappointed that I wasn’t using my creativity as often as I wanted to. In early 2017 I stopped taking new clients in order to dedicate more time to art—especially to ceramics. Today I work in a small, shared workspace close to the beach called 137° Artistic Studio. I create both functional and decorative ceramics on the wheel as well as sculpture and mosaics. I sell my work online and I’m also developing new projects to support artists in Barcelona. Why do you do what you do? Ceramics is the activity that fascinates me most in this world. I love mixing the different elements of earth, water, and fire to make something lasting and beautiful. I also appreciate all of the learning that comes from working with clay. For me, ceramics is a meditative and creative outlet, but it can also be a very frustrating and disappointing experience. You may spend weeks working on a piece, just to have it break in the kiln. Or the colors might not turn out as expected. There is a lot of trial and error involved in ceramics, and even if you try and try and try again, you may never get the result you’re looking for. Or you may achieve it once, and never manage to get the same conditions to repeat it. You need a lot of patience. Clay is a great teacher of impermanence and acceptance of what is. I have never found another activity that challenges me, and at the same time, rewards me in so many ways. How do you like to work? Inspiration can hit me at different times of the day. I’m very productive and happy when I’m alone at night with a glass of wine, my music on, and my dog sleeping by my side. However, most days I enjoy the company of my colleagues in the studio. There’s no better way to learn and grow than when you’re surrounded by other artists. What’s your background? My mom signed me up for a ceramics class when I was 7 years old. It was love at first sight and during my childhood I went to a community center in Portland every Tuesday night to play with clay. It was a very relaxed atmosphere, where I was free to experiment and explore. There was a very kind teacher who was always patient and supportive and he would usually let me do my own thing. Sometimes he made suggestions to improve my methods or help me develop ideas without being pushy or critical. I never went on to do any formal studies or training in the Arts. For most of my life, ceramics was just a hobby and favorite pastime. Luckily for me, Art is an activity that you can learn and develop skill sets as you go along. There’s no risk involved in a lack of education, perhaps just a lot of ugly artwork. What’s your strongest memory of your childhood? My experiences white water rafting had a huge impact on me as a child. Every day on the river is a new adventure, a new stretch of woods, river and rapids to maneuver, and a new campsite to explore. We wake up a dawn each day to break down the entire campsite after breakfast, pack it all back up on the boats, row all day and then unpack and set it all up over again with tired arms and a sunburnt face. It’s non-stop, hard, exhausting work, but somehow I never grow tired of it. After a week or so on the river, we all crave a hot shower like never before. But when the day comes to pull the boats out of the water, it feels like the sad end of an era. A part of me always wants to continue floating down the river, just a few more days. What’s integral to the work of an artist? Determination. I believe many modern societies don’t consider art “real work.” My own experience and the examples I see around me every day tell me differently. Being an artist requires training, practice, organization, and discipline. It takes courage to make something unique, put it out into the world, hoping others will appreciate it. It’s not just about making the art. There are many insecurities to overcome and many smaller side-jobs to attend to. If you want to make a living as an artist, you must be very determined. What role does the artist have in society? Artists have many roles. For me, the most important are: dreamers, change-makers, and entertainers.  It is the creative people who are able to see the world for what it is and imagine it differently. Creative people see solutions where others see problems. Artists are sensitive as well as expressive people. If you mix their sensibility with drive and determination, they have the ability to turn their empathy or outrage into something very powerful—a painting, song, or story. Art can be beautiful, calming, entertaining, functional, and decorative. But it can also be thought-provoking and transformative. What has been a seminal experience? Moving to Granada, Spain when I was 20, and later to Barcelona, changed my life and my work forever. First, because I took a long break from ceramics to travel, learn, and explore life a bit. When I was ready to pick up clay again I was surrounded by a much more diverse group of people with different working styles. The clay was different. My mindset and confidence were different. In some ways it was like starting over. I’ll never know what kind of artistic experience I would have had, had I stayed in Portland. Some things are better left unknown. Explain your artistic style in 100 words Experimental flow. Organic. Curves and textures. Sensations based on nature. Surprising facial expressions. How has your practice changed over time The biggest change for me has been turning ceramics from a hobby into my profession.  I have always maintained a very free-spirited way of working. I get an idea or a sensation and I go with it. I don’t make plans, sketches, tests or calculations. Either it works or it doesn’t. If I get close and it fails, then I may try again or I’ll just move on to the next project. What art do you most identify with? Visual art such as ceramics, photography, and paintings. What work do you most enjoying doing? I enjoy the creation phase in ceramics. The part where you get your hands dirty and the clay is still soft and malleable. I am less fond of everything that comes after: trimming, cleaning, glazing, firing, etc. But that’s all just part of the process. What themes in your artwork do you like to? By far the biggest influence in my work is Mother Nature. I love to try and replicate her natural beauty with the clay. I’m also very curious about faces. I do a lot of abstract masks. Other common themes for me are the female form, spirituality, and motherhood. What’s your favorite artwork? I’m very moved by the work of Alberto Bustos, Sebastião Salgado, Dale Chihuly, Vincent Van Gogh and Georgia O’Keeffe, to name a few. Describe a real-life situation that inspired you? Global warming inspires me to be more conscientious, to make big lifestyle changes, and inspire others to take action as well. I am always looking for ways to connect this inspiration to my work. For example, there are some potters sharing ideas and inspiration via social media to encourage people to use traditional materials and ‘break free from plastic.‘ I made a piece last year depicting the ocean waves filled with plastic. I’d like to develop more projects with the goal of raising awareness. What’s your most embarrassing moment? I had lots of them when I was learning Spanish. I would accidentally mispronounce or misuse words, making inappropriate comments. People would either crack up laughing or look at me like I was an alien. Less often, they would make fun of me. Needless to say, it was always embarrassing. What jobs have you done other than being an artist? When I was young I worked in small shops and as a waitress. As an adult in Barcelona, I was in real estate for many years before I become a freelancer working in translation, editing, design, and publishing. Why art? Someone once told me that in an ideal world we could all be doing something useful for our community, and that same thing would bring us personal and professional happiness. (Think of the things you would continue to do even if nobody was paying you.) That idea struck a chord with me and I decided to make it one of my goals. The ‘useful’ activities I love to do are making art, cooking, caring for animals, and gardening. Art is the activity that pushes my limits more than the others (I’ve always liked a good challenge.) It also makes the most sense while living in the city. Maybe I’ll grow tired of challenges and I’ll move to the countryside to pursue my other interests one day… I hope so. What is an artistic outlook on life? I think an artistic outlook is an open-minded outlook. Artists must be curious first and foremost, which leads them to new experiences. If someone is curious and closed-minded, they’re probably just looking for trouble. On the other hand, an open-minded outlook allows a person to explore and share their impressions through creativity and imagination. What memorable responses have you had to your work? People have had a very good reaction to the sculptures I’ve made in the last couple of years. Previously I only made pieces that were small enough to fit in your hand. I feel encouraged by the responses to my bigger sculptures and I’ll keep moving in that direction. What food, drink, song inspires you? Food: Creative vegetarian meals that are not trying to imitate meat. Drink: Wine. Song: This is hard. Can I pick an album instead? New Blues by Third World Love Do you find the artistic life lonely or lively? If so, do you do anything to counteract it? I find it quite lively. After working from home as a freelancer for 10 years, I’m enjoying working next to people in the studio again. Plus, in the art world there’s always exhibitions and events to attend. What do you dislike about the art world? Pretentiousness and competition. What do you dislike about your work? It’s not my work I dislike. It’s my attitude about my work and how I nitpick at everything. I examine every detail that I would do differently if I could do it over. I do the same thing with my cooking. I need to tell myself enough already! It’s done. So sit down and enjoy it! What do you like about your work? That it’s unrestricted and that each project is unique. Clay allows for such a huge array of options when it comes to working methods and styles. Ceramics can be a very structured craft resulting in functional pieces. It can also be very experimental and provide a unique offering in the world of fine art. I like exploring and experimenting in different realms and I appreciate my flexibility to change it up constantly. Should art be funded publicly?  Yes, without a doubt. I think we should start with more creative opportunities in our public schools. Funding the arts means supporting culture, creative thinking, collaboration, enjoyment, and well-being. Call me crazy if these aren’t the fundamental building blocks of a healthy society. What role does arts funding have?  Funding the arts ensures that we have a healthy balance in our society. We need creative minds to develop and contribute their ideas in whatever means possible. We all have different ways of expressing ourselves and to smother and marginalize the arts is to miss out on all of the ideas and innovations that could arise from their exploration. Humankind will completely destroy itself in its pursuit of mechanization, industrialization, and profit. Funding the arts means the opposite. It means investing in the advancement of humanity. What makes you angry? Large corporations’ ruthless destruction of the earth for monetary profit and the everyday people’s apathetic attitude and unwillingness to change. What research to you do? I’m starting to do research on how to make my own glazes. (Something I had previously avoided. I never did enjoy Chemistry class). I’m also learning more about the history of ceramics. What superpower would you have and why? Definitely flying; to save time and energy on transport. Don’t tell my bicycle though—she’ll get jealous. Name something you love, and why. My friends. With the help of their love and support I find my own peace of mind, happiness and courage. Name something you don’t love, and why. Talking on the phone. Even though it’s essential sometimes (especially to keep up with friends and family on the other side of the world), I have never been a fan. What is your dream project? One day I’d like to co-create a large ceramic mural/mosaic in a public space with an impactful message. Name three artists you’d like to be compared to. I don’t think I want to be compared to anyone. Favorite or most inspirational place? Old growth forests. What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given? Do what you love. And you will never work a day in your life. Professionally, what’s your goal? My goal is to be able to sustain myself financially and maintain the freedom to arrange my own schedule, while still enjoying the process of making and selling my work. I could care less about artistic fame and riches. I just want to make a living doing what I love. What piece of advice would you give to a young artist starting out? Believe in yourself. If that’s hard in the beginning, find people who believe in you and listen to their words of encouragement. Once that’s accomplished, market yourself, not just your work. If that’s hard to do in the beginning, bite your lip and get over it. Or pay someone to do it for you. What wouldn’t you do without in life? Since I’ve already mentioned my love and adoration of friends, family and nature… I’d have to say music.

Art and gardening share many common threads—both strive to instill meaning, create beauty, and transcend the mundane. Put them together and their impact multiplies. Creatively combining ceramics and plants is a great way to establish a harmonious and visually appealing environment both indoors and out. In this article, I’ll delve into the art of displaying plants, why it’s beneficial to us, and how ceramic art is the perfect match for this purpose. Combining art & indoor plants Houseplants breathe life into our space; bringing color, texture, and vibrancy. And their placement is as important as the type of plants we choose. Here are a few concepts to keep in mind when thinking about artfully displaying plants in your home. Complementing colors Artwork with complementary colors can enhance the color of the plants and create a cohesive design. For example, a vase on the shelf with shades of green or blue can complement the color of a leafy plant, while an artwork with warm hues can complement the colors of flowering plants. Adding contrast Artwork with contrasting colors or patterns can add visual interest and contrast to a display of plants. For example, a geometric sculpture or painted pot can create a striking contrast with the organic shapes of plants. Creating a Focal Point Artwork can be used to create a focal point in a display of plants, drawing the eye to a particular area. For example, a large painting can serve as a centerpiece in a room and be surrounded by smaller potted plants. Similarly, a sculpture can be strategically placed to draw a viewers attention to a certain area. Providing a Backdrop Artwork can also provide a backdrop for plants, creating a sense of depth and perspective. For example, a mural or tiled wall with a nature-inspired pattern can create a lush, verdant backdrop for a display of plants. Pairing pots with plants There are various options to choose from, such as the minimalistic elegance of a single plant in a small pot or a riot of color and texture in a larger container. Success lies in finding the perfect match that brings out the best in each plant and pot. Explore the endless possibilities of this artful integration! Ceramic vase for complimentary colors. Ceramic plate as a focal point Artistic planter Art in the Garden On a sunny day, a cultivated garden is a beautiful sight that blends botanical beauty and human design. Garden design elements play a crucial role in creating a harmonious and awe-inspiring outdoor space. And the combination of plants with ceramic art creates a striking contrast between the natural world and man-made objects.  Incorporating art into a garden can take many forms, such as sculptures, fountains, trellises, and mosaics. Here are a few things to keep in mind while integrating art into your garden. Enhancing aesthetics Ceramic art can enhance the visual appeal of a garden by adding color, texture, and interest. Sculptures, murals, chimes and other forms of art can serve as focal points, creating a sense of depth and perspective. Creating a sense of place Art can also help to create a unique sense of place in a garden, reflecting the personality and interests of the gardener. A well-chosen piece of art can imbue a garden with a sense of character and identity. Such as a buddha sculpture in a quiet corner or a wave sculpture next to a water feature. Adding functional elements Art can also serve functional purposes in a garden. For example, a sculpture can act as a trellis for climbing plants, while a decorative gate can provide an entry point to the garden. Encouraging Creativity Creating or selecting art for a garden can be a creative process that encourages experimentation and self-expression. This can be a fun and rewarding way to engage with the garden and make it a more personal space. Hanging ceramic art Garden sculpture Final thoughts When talking about elements of garden design and the placement of house plants, ceramics play a big role. The convergence of these two fields create a unique aesthetic reflecting the natural and human-made worlds. Ceramic art adds a feeling of timelessness and stability to an ever-changing landscape.  Displaying plants with art is a match made in heaven. Both aim to evoke emotion, stir passion and bring forth a sense of wonder. It’s easy to see why one complements the other so beautifully.

Are small marks and mutations from the handmade process considered mistakes? Or are they the essence of what makes handmade pottery special? Let’s take a closer look at why imperfections happen and how they impact the value of pottery. First, a look at cultural significance Are you familiar with the concept of perfectly imperfect? It’s a notion that Eastern cultures have been embracing for centuries. For example, Islamic artists make deliberate imperfections in their designs because they believe that nothing is perfect but Allah.  Another widely known tradition from Japan is Wabi-Sabi. “Wabi” refers to the beauty of asymmetry and “sabi” is the beauty of aging and impermanence. Kinsugi is a great example of Wabi Sabi—broken pottery is repaired using gold, silver or platinum—venerating the breakage as part of the history of the piece. “The essence of wabi-­sabi is that true beauty, whether it comes from an object, architecture, or visual art, doesn’t reveal itself until the winds of time have had their say. Beauty is in the cracks, the worn spots, and the imperfect lines.”  —Todd Dominey This concept is a stark contrast to the lessons learned in modern Western societies, where values of perfection are forced upon us in everything from a person’s physical appearance to the gadgets and decorations in our homes. Perfection is a big lie of course, and thankfully people are realizing that perfect doesn’t mean better. Life is not perfect. Nor should it be. Real beauty lies in the quirks and character. But in the world of ceramics, this is why many potters have texts that read like warnings to their buyers, telling them that the piece they buy might have blemishes or imperfections. Artists in Western cultures must inform their buyers about the implicit imperfect nature of handmade pottery. The imperfections tell a story Handmade pottery is not mass produced in a factory using molds. Each piece is unique and while it might be part of a set or collection made by the artist, the irregular shape or finger marks mean that it’s one-of-a-kind. The imperfections tell the story about how it was made.  Embracing the alchemy Potters spend years honing their craft, building muscle memory and trying to improve their technique. But for all of the long hours and hard work that’s involved in creating well-made pots, there are always certain elements that remain completely out of our control. Potters must humbly embrace alchemy and learn to accept what is.  Let me give you an example. Even if I throw a “perfect” bowl and dip it in reliable glazes, once the pot goes into the kiln, I have no control over the chemistry that happens inside. Variations in the color occur because of the thickness of the pot, thickness of the glaze applied, variations in the kiln temperature, and the position in the kiln. Even the chemical composition of the glazes on an adjacent pot can change the color of my bowl and vice versa. Examples of pieces with marks from the handmade process. And that’s just the coloring… What about the shape? Clay shrinks and moves in the kiln. If there’s any humidity still in the clay, cracks and bubbles can form. The list of ways that character and quirkiness can appear is endless. The craft of making handmade pottery requires constant recalibration … and yes, a little bit of guesswork and luck. Successful potters must learn to enjoy uncertainty because it’s part of the process. If you see enough handmade pottery, you’ll realize that all of it has unique variations. Even the pieces at the most prestigious art galleries. So going back to the question at the start of this article—are variations an integral part of the craft? The answer is an emphatic yes! And each piece is more unique (and valuable!) because of it.  If you’re new to the world of pottery and looking to buy some pieces, whether functional or decorative, you may have some questions. I’m creating a new series of blog posts to help new buyers answer a few frequently asked questions. If there’s anything you’d like to know, please tell me about it in the comments below!

Amidst the chaos of our modern lives, there’s something magical about slowing down and embracing rituals. They provide us with a profound sense of meaning, allowing us to anchor ourselves in a world that feels overwhelming.  In recent years, a revival of contemporary rituals and ceremonies has given rise to a new appreciation for the aesthetic and spiritual power of ceramics. The ritualistic use of ceramics brings a sense of connection to ancient traditions and practices, reminding us of our human need for connection and communion.  The versatility of ceramics allows for a multitude of expressions and forms, from simplistic and earthy to intricate and ornamental. Each piece is a canvas for unique exploration, encouraging the creation of personalized ceremonial objects with striking and nuanced meanings.  The resurgence of ceramics in contemporary rituals points to a renewed interest in artistry, craftsmanship, and spirituality—igniting a new era of creative exploration and appreciation for the power and symbolism of simple objects. There’s something innately spiritual about the art of ceramics that draws people in and creates a unique connection that’s hard to describe. From the soothing nature of spinning clay on a pottery wheel to the beauty of a finished piece, ceramics provide a unique sense of fulfillment and satisfaction that spans many cultures and traditions.  In this article, I’ll explore the importance of contemporary rituals and some of the most compelling reasons why ceramics are making such an impact in rituals around the world. So grab a cup of something warm and settle in, because we’re about to take a deep dive into the fascinating world of spiritual connection through clay. Ceremonial cacao cups. Image by Amrita Cacao. Historical significance  Pottery has been vital to human history for centuries, serving both functional and ceremonial purposes. From ceremonial cups and ancestral vessels to healing bowls and rhythmic instruments, sacred objects had an important role to play. Thus, pottery evolved across cultures, reflecting unique technological and crafting skills in every corner of the world. Mesoamerica Ceramics hold a spiritual essence beyond their practical use. In shamanic journeys, pottery acts as a link between the Earth and the spiritual realm, allowing communication with ancestors and the natural world. The Maya civilization used ceramic vessels for offerings, dedicatory rituals, and ceremonial feasts.  Ancient Egypt Pottery played a crucial role in funerary rituals and the belief in the afterlife of ancient Egypt. Elaborate pottery vessels, known as canopic jars, served a practical purpose in preserving the body for the afterlife. They were essential for the deceased’s journey into the next realm. American Southwest The Pueblo people created intricate pottery vessels for sacred purposes. The vessels, known as ollas, were essential for ceremonies such as rain dances and fertility rituals. They believed Ollas carried the power and blessings of the deities and they were conduits for spiritual forces. Ancient Greece Pottery played a vital role in religious rituals, particularly in libations. This involved pouring liquid offerings, such as wine or water, as a gesture of reverence to the gods. Ceramic libation bowls, called phialae, were used to hold the offerings and were often decorated with religious motifs or inscriptions. These bowls served as vessels for the symbolic exchange between mortals and deities, facilitating communication and honoring the divine. Japan Pottery has been integral to Shinto rituals and shrine ceremonies. Ceramic vessels, known as mizusashi, are used to hold water for purification rituals before entering a shrine. These vessels are often crafted with traditional techniques and reflect the aesthetics of Japanese pottery. The use of pottery in Shinto rituals emphasizes the importance of purity, cleansing, and spiritual connection. These examples demonstrate the diverse and profound historical significance of pottery in human rituals. Pottery has served as vessels for offerings, representations of deities, tools for purification, and symbols of communication between the mortal and spiritual realms. Through craftsmanship, symbolism, and use in rituals, pottery has been an integral part of human culture, spirituality, and the expression of devotion throughout the ages. Ceramics used in modern ceremonies As we have seen, ceramics have been used for centuries to symbolize everything from birth and death to purity and transformation. Today, ceramics are being re-imagined to add vibrancy to traditional and non-traditional practices. Contemporary artists are reviving this ancient art form, as handmade ceramics elicit a sense of connection to the past while being grounded in the present. Let’s take a close look at a few examples: Incense burners The copalera and other ritual incense burners are used to burn plants, herbs and copal resin used for purification, offerings, and communication with the divine. During rituals or ceremonies, the copalera becomes a focal point where intentions, prayers, and offerings are symbolically carried by the rising smoke. It is believed to facilitate a connection between the physical and spiritual realms, purify the space, and evoke a sacred atmosphere. Wheel thrown stoneware copal burners Ceremonial cacao cups Cacao has been revered as a sacred plant medicine for centuries, believed to possess spiritual and healing properties. Ceramic cups in cacao ceremonies hold the essence of tradition, symbolism, and reverence for the sacred plant medicine. Through their aesthetics, symbolism, and personal connection, these cups create a vessel for participants to connect with the spirit of the cacao. Through this process they embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery, healing, and connection with the natural world. Ceremonial tea cups The ceramic bowls used in tea ceremonies hold a deep significance and play a vital role in the ritualistic experience. These bowls embody centuries of tradition and craftsmanship, becoming vessels through which the spirit of the tea ceremony is channeled. The vessels enhance the sensory experience of drinking tea and symbolize mindfulness, harmony, and the appreciation of the present moment. Cremation urns Ceramic urns play an important role in commemorating our loved ones. They stand as symbolic vessels that hold the ashes of the departed, offering a personalized and elegant tribute. Handmade ceramic urns bear witness to the enduring artistry of pottery and are a perfect example of age-old materials used in modern rituals. Handmade ceramic cremation urn Adaptability to everyday rituals With their ability to take any form, design, and purpose, ceramics evoke powerful emotions and convey deep meaning, whether in ceremonies, as art or even in simple, daily rituals at home. Think of the warmth of a morning coffee shared with a loved one, or the meditative sips of tea that ground us in the present moment. From delicate porcelain to earthy stoneware, each cup holds the power to ignite our senses and cultivate mindful rituals of nourishment and communion. As fragrant tendrils of incense waft through the air, we enter a space of reverence and tranquility. Incense burners, crafted with care and intention, invite us to release the worries of the day, purify our surroundings, and create a sacred ambiance for relaxation and contemplation.  Altars are sacred spaces in our home where intentions take form. Ceramics can play an essential role in altar setups, holding offerings, sacred texts, or objects of personal significance. Each vessel, lovingly placed, carries the power to channel our devotion, intention, and gratitude. They create a focal point for rituals that deepen our spiritual connection. River bowls for ceremony, ritual, healing Conclusion Rituals hold a profound importance in our modern lives. They offer us a sanctuary of calm amidst the chaos, ground us in the present moment, and nurture our connections with ourselves and others. They remind us of the beauty of simplicity and the power of intention. Through the medium of ceramics, we find an avenue for self-expression, creativity, and mindfulness, allowing us to easily create our own home rituals and ceremonies with family and friends.

Handmade ceramics are a versatile and timeless. They can be cherished and used for many years, making them an ideal choice for unique and meaningful gifts. Whether you’re looking for functional items or decorative pieces, the possibilities made of clay are endless. I have gathered ten unique ceramic gift ideas that are sure to sure to leave an indelible mark. For each idea I provide a link to products in my shop. Availability will vary and I’m very sorry if you find anything sold out. I am a sole-maker and all of my work is either one-of-a-kind or made in very small batches. 1. Creative Trinket Dishes Small ornamental dishes are perfect for holding jewelry, keys, coins and other treasures. They come in an infinite number of shapes and designs, making them a stylish and practical addition to any dresser or vanity. A ceramic trinket dish adds a touch of elegance to personal organization. See my selection of small bowls and dishes. 2. Pots for Plants If you’re buying for someone with a green thumb, a homemade ceramic flower pot is the perfect gift. Pair it with a new succulent or some seeds to plant and it’s a gift that keeps on living—giving—growing. Here is my collection of one-of-a-kind planters. 3. Handmade Mugs Nothing beats the simple pleasure of sipping a favorite beverage from a beautifully crafted ceramic mug. As any mug-lover knows, mugs are not just vessels; they’re pieces of art. Gift a handmade ceramic mug to a coffee or tea enthusiast, and they’ll think of you with every sip. See my selection of handmade cups and mugs. 4. Bottles, Jugs and Jars Ceramic bottles, jars and canisters are an item that anyone can find a use for. From storing salt and spices in the kitchen to rubber bands and paperclips in the office, ceramic jars are both useful and beautiful. I pair mine with natural cork stoppers from Spain. You can find a selection of handmade jars and canisters in my shop. 5. Flower vases Anyone who loves fresh flowers must have a good collection of vases on hand.  From bud vases to large, decorative vessels, the pairing of clay and flowers is a timeless classic. Take advantage that all of my vases are on sale for half off! 6. Wall Art Ceramic wall art is a unique and striking way to decorate any living space. Artists create beautiful ceramic tiles or wall hangings that can be arranged to form a stunning mosaic or displayed individually. Ceramic wall art can depict various themes, from abstract designs to nature-inspired scenes. Here’s my collection! 7. Serving dishes It doesn’t matter if your loved one has plain white dishes or an eclectic set of handmade plates, a beautiful serving dish can combine with anything. (And it will make the table shine!) It can bring attention to the main dish being served or be used as a fruit or salad bowl when they’re not having company. See my serving dishes currently available. 8. Ritual Ceramics Rituals hold a profound importance in our modern lives. They offer us a sanctuary of calm amidst the chaos, ground us in the present moment, and nurture our connections with ourselves and others. They remind us of the beauty of simplicity and the power of intention. Handmade ceramics allow us to easily create our own home rituals and ceremonies with family and friends. See my selection of cacao cups, incense burners, and more ceremonial ceramics. 9. Ceramic Jewelry Surprise your loved one with a gift that shows you put a great deal of thought into selecting it. Ceramic jewelry is unique, contemporary, wearable art. You can see my unique ceramic jewelry pieces here. 10. Small Sculptures For the art enthusiast in your life, consider gifting a ceramic sculpture. These pieces of art can be abstract, figurative, or inspired by nature. Ceramic sculptures are ideal for adding a unique focal point to a room and sparking conversations about their meaning and the artist’s technique. It’s a highly personal gift to be displayed in their home or office for all to see. See my small ceramic sculptures inspired by nature as well as those based on the feminine form. Bonus! Olive Dishes Olive bowls are a home run gift with olive lovers. Guests will never again need to look around uncomfortably, trying to find where to stash their olive pits. Olive dishes with a separate bowl for the pits make serving and eating olives easy. See my handmade olive dishes. (These sell out quickly, so sorry if you find my shop empty) I hope you are inspired by my list of unique ceramic gift ideas. If a product from my shop is sold out or has only a few items to choose from, please sign up to my mailing list to get notified of pieces for sale. I love to play and experiment so most of my work is one-of-a-kind or made in very small batches. If you didn’t see anything that inspired you here, then check out my growing Pinterest board with more ceramic gift inspiration.

Glazing is a crucial step in the ceramic-making process, adding color, texture, and a protective layer to your pottery. However, applying glazes can be tricky, especially for beginners. Here are our five tips to help you achieve good glazing results: 1. Prepare Your Pottery Thoroughly Before applying any glaze, ensure your pottery is clean and free from dust or debris. Any residue can affect the glaze’s adhesion and appearance. Use a soft brush or damp sponge to gently clean your pieces. If you’re working with bisque-fired pottery, ensure it’s completely dry before applying your glaze.   2. Choose the Right Glaze Selecting the appropriate glaze is essential for your project. Consider factors such as the desired color, texture, and the type of clay you’re using. Different glazes have varying properties, so research and test the glazes first to find a good match. You should always test your glaze before you apply glaze on your finished pieces.  You can choose to use commercial glazes or make your own glazes.  Learning to make your own glazes can give you more control over the final product.  Read our blog article “5 reasons you should make your own glazes” to learn more. 3. Apply a Consistent Coat Whether you are using a brush or dipping technique be sure to apply a smooth, even coat of glaze. Things to avoid while brushing is overloading the brush, this can cause drips and runs. If you’re using a brush, apply the glaze in a few thin, even coats.  For dipping your pieces, submerge your pottery completely in the glaze and count how long you keep your piece in the glaze to ensure a replicable result with other pieces.  We like a 3 second dip in our glazes.  Read our “The Science Behind Glaze Application” for more information on dipping, brushing and spraying . 4. Control Glaze Thickness The thickness of the glaze can significantly impact the final appearance. If you apply too much glaze, it may run, crack or flake off your piece during firing. Conversely, if the glaze is too thin, it may not provide adequate coverage of glaze. Experiment with different application layers to find the ideal thickness for your desired effect.   5. Fire the Pottery Carefully The firing process is crucial for developing the glaze’s color, texture, and durability. Follow the recommended firing temperature for your particular glaze. Even a slight variation in temperature can significantly affect the glaze’s outcome.  Learn more about “Kiln Firing Rates” and why cone number and temperature is important. By following these 5 tips, you can make your glazing results come out the way you want and create beautiful, high-quality pottery. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don’t be afraid to experiment and learn from your mistakes by Test, Test, Test-ing!