I’m a sentimental person and I often incorporate meaningful objects into my work.
I never really thought about somebody else knowing what they are or what they mean. However, recently when one of my wholesale accounts (shop owner) told me that she stops every customer who brings up an item of mine to the counter and tells them, “Did you know this was handmade by someone who is not only talented, but an amazing person? Each piece is as unique as she is.” I was so touched she took the time to say that instead of just ringing up a sale. I had another customer tell me “I love your work so much. It seems very personal.” You know what? It is, and it’s intentional.
These are the greatest types of comments I receive, as it affirms that we human and making a connection to something that has meaning. That’s what it’s all about, right? One may be be drawn to my work because they want to take home something from a trip and the imagery reminds them of their time near the coast. Or, perhaps they have a friend they are gifting it to who loves the pattern/color/ style. The mere act of spreading joy from one person to another is more meaningful to me than anything else.
For those of you who know me, I lost my brother just about 20 years ago. A lot of the imagery that I include on my ceramics is related to my family of origin. Sometimes I put five dots near each other because I come from a family of five. Or, I like to have three of the same motifs on one piece because I’m one of three kids. I also have a 22 dot flower in honor of my brother‘s birthday 11/22. In the winter, I incorporate a red cardinal, which always reminds me of him.
During this past holiday season, I had a customer purchase a mug with a red all over design. She was so thrilled because it brought her so much joy. She then told me that she recently lost her husband, and it was the first time she had felt true joy in a while. (I nearly fell apart in my booth. I explained to her that she chose the mug that had the 22 dot flower on it-which was in honor of my brother) So, there were are, the two of us finding joy with experiencing loss, and making a connection….over a mug.
I’m really looking forward to making more connections with you this coming year. I love hearing your stories, your joy, and what you have to share.