Clay Holiday Market - Artists' Inspiration
As Clay Holiday Market approaches, artists share their inspiration for holiday pieces.
The holidays are a busy time for everyone, as we travel, cook, and gather together to reflect on the past year and prepare for the new. Here at Clay Art Center the kilns are running overtime, and each firing brings new ceramics, lovingly crafted for the Clay Holiday Market with the hopes that they will make those gatherings a little more beautiful.
Artist Dalia Berman emphasizes the tranquility and serenity of her ceramics: “I make very calm, peaceful work. I find that clay is a place where you can just concentrate on just putting the handle on a cup, and shut everything else out. I find that very peaceful and relaxing, and my hope is that these pieces will go out into the world and bring other people peace, too.” Dalia’s elegant mugs are perfect for warming cups of tea on cold mornings.
The function and beauty of artist Reena Kashyap’s bowls, trays, and platters set the mood for the holiday table. Reena notes that, “My pots bring another aspect to the table, to the food being served. Unique, handmade pieces bring something different to the experience. They’re very personal - there’s a story and a person behind it. There’s a very human factor to it.” Many of Reena’s works are done in Shino glaze, a tricky glaze with shiny white, orange, and gold finishes.
For Westchester Community Foundation Fellow Stephanie Perez, childhood memories are a source of inspiration for her bunny and teddy bear ornaments. “I feel like everybody has that blanket or stuffed animal from their childhood that they love to the point of just being rags. When I was making these ornaments, I was thinking of my own stuffed bear and how well-loved it is.” Their intricate details and tiny, crocheted scarves reflect that love and care.
The Clay Holiday Market, featuring the work of these artists and many others, will be open in-store and online November 14th - December 23rd. Join us on Saturday, December 7th from 11am – 3pm for a special shopping day to meet some of the featured artists, enjoy seasonal ornament painting with family and friends, complete with free sweet treats and holiday flavors.
