jeanette zeis ceramics

Holiday Open Studio and Sale!

2011-11-28T07:59:00.000-08:00

Join myself and TwoFour Manufacturing for a Studio Open House on Saturday, December 10th from noon - 9pm.

Come take a peek at our shared studio space in the Old Fourth Ward neighborhood, adjacent to the new Historic Old Fourth Ward Park.

We are opening the studio for a holiday sale and will be having pottery and screen printing demonstrations at 3 and 6.

New work is available for purchase, just in time for gift-giving!

658 Angier Ave. NE
Atlanta, GA 30308

404.840.7121

New work- like, really different and new.

2011-11-21T14:51:00.000-08:00

Here is some new work. MISHIMA! A great (addicting and seriously fun) method for decorating pots. Molly Hatch is the inspiration here. You can find a quick tutorial of her technique on her website. Along with loads of beautiful pots and drawings.

Handmade ceramic spoons. A little tutorial.

2011-07-01T15:57:00.000-07:00

Its been in my head for a bit to make some spoons. Inspired by the amazing spoons of Julie Whitmore and Diana Fayt. Their spoons are truly works of art.

I have a small salt jar with a ceramic spoon that I purchased from Anthropologie (I know, I know) a couple of years ago. I love it. The little spoon is so sweet. Every time I use it, I swear that I will make my own spoons.

And finally, I did!

I made some bisque molds. I used the ceramic spoon mentioned above to get the general shape that I wanted.

These steps took a little trial and error. That first photo has WAY too much clay, but you get the idea. Take some clay, push it into the mold.

Clean up and refine. This was a little tricky. I expected the bisque mold to "hold" the clay, but it did not. It easily released the spoon. So it was a challenge to keep the spoon in the mold while I worked on cleaning the shape up.

I used mishima to decorate the spoons. A technique that I have been wanting to explore. And the small surface of the spoons was perfect.

Ta-da! Some finished spoons!

Trying to take the Easy Rd.

2011-06-14T08:00:00.000-07:00

We made some jewelry. Rings and hair pins. Sweet and cute, right? We made the components, fired them, glazed them, fired them again and attached them to the findings.

Easy. Thought we'd sell them all.

Instead, I pulled them off the table the second day of the show. (I did have a couple of sweet people that specifically asked for them when they were gone.)

Why?

I felt compromised and cheapened. I had made them for a quick buck. Don't get me wrong, I like them. I'm wearing a hairpin right now. But the intention behind them was to make money. And maybe that is just not an appropriate starting point for me.

I also felt like it distracted from my other work. A typical passerby to my booth would look at the hanging baskets and berry bowls, admire the cake stands and then spot the shiny jewelry. Pick up a couple of pieces, put it back down and walk away. Was that why I was having a bad show? I don't know. I do know that I had a better show after I pulled the pieces out of my booth.

This was a frustrating show. And maybe it is too easy to blame the jewelry. The show was jam-packed with jewelry (around 1/3 of the vendors.) Some of it was well-made and beautiful. Some of it- not so much.

Perhaps, it was a poor decision on my part to participate in the show. Normally, it is a good show for me. But this year felt differently. Cheaper. Boring. Stagnant. And I don't think I was doing my work any favors by being there.

I have never come away from a show feeling that way before. And maybe that is a sign of growth. Recognizing where my work belongs and where it doesn't.

Mostly, I learned that we weren't on Easy Rd. And, really, have no clue where it is. And now I'm not so sure we should try to find it.

Summer Show Schedule! EVENTS!!!

2011-04-12T17:49:00.000-07:00

Yay! I'm kinda excited for it all to begin. Time to haul out the old craft tent and spruce up the display.

I generally only do 2 or 3 craft shows, but this year I'm in OVERDRIVE. With a whooping 5 fairs and a WEDDING SHOW!

Here it is - the big rundown:

Please come out and say "hi!" I will be the dehydrated and sunburnt (let's hope! sun preferred over rain!) gal in the apron with all the colorful pottery.

April 30 & May 1
INMAN PARK FESTIVAL
I really dig this show. My neighborhood (sorta.) Fun and boozy and foodie and crowded and a PARADE!!!

May 7
ATHENS INDIE CRAFTSTRAVAGANZAA
Quirky and cute craft show in downtown Athens. A wonderful show with some great local talent. Anyone need an excuse to eat at The Grit?

May 21 & 22
WEDDING DAY HOORAY
The ladies that bring us the amazing Indie Craft Experience are bringing us a wedding show! Looking forward to showing off my cake stands and introducing my registry!

June 4 & 5
VIRGINIA-HIGHLAND SUMMERFEST
An Atlanta classic. By now, it is sweltering hot and people are wandering around like zombies. But what lovely and friendly zombies they are! Great neighborhood. Fabulous vendors (like Mark Knott, a favorite potter of mine.)

June 11 & 12
INDIE CRAFT EXPERIENCE (ICE)
A hands-down favorite. Love this show! Unique and wonderful vendors. From lots of local and not-so-local talent. And its inside!!!

June 25 & 26
CHATTY CRAFTY
I'm bringing my wares up to Chattanooga! This is the first time I will be doing this event, but I'm really looking forward to it. Maybe I'll get the chance to see Rock City on the way home?

And that's it! Hopefully you get the chance to support your local artists this summer and join in the good times at your favorite festival! (don't forget the sunscreen)

Cupcake Stand Sale!

2011-02-23T19:23:00.001-08:00

I'm currently running a cupcake stand sale in my etsy shop. Yay! Sale ends on February 28th. So grab one while the grabbing is good.

Happy New Year and a VeganDish SALE!

2011-01-03T06:18:00.000-08:00

Hi! Just want to say a slightly belated Happy 2011! I had a good year last year, and really want to thank everyone for the love and support. I'm a very very lucky gal, and I couldn't do it without you. A heartfelt thanks- many many many times over.

And now for the much more exciting part. I've finally restocked a bit in my VeganDish shop (yea, I know, a little late...) And to celebrate, everything is 20% off. Simply enter "happyvegan2011" when you checkout to receive the discount. (excludes shipping cost)
So maybe it's time to get a little something for yourself or stock up for the upcoming birthdays!

ps- don't worry, if VeganDish isn't your cup of tea- there may be an upcoming sale in my other shop too ;)

Upcoming Events.

2010-11-11T19:25:00.000-08:00

It's that time of year, folks! The holidays are right around the corner. And that means I will be out and about with my wares all over town. Come on by and say "hi!" if you get the chance.
Please try to support your local artists and crafters this holiday season. Because you don't really want to go to the mall, do you?

(one of my favorite craft shows- tons of great vendors!)
Indie Craft Experience (ICE)
November 20 & 21, Saturday and Sunday 11am - 6pm
585 Wells St. SW
Atlanta, GA 30312

(an annual favorite. My studio-mates and good friends at the co-operative studio. Fun event- come out for the preview!)
Cabbagetown Clay and Glass Works 9th Annual Holiday Show & Sale
December 3, Friday 6pm - 10 pm
open Saturdays and SundaysDecember 4 - December 16, 10am - 4pm
588 Woodward Ave.
Atlanta, GA 30312

(I have a piece in this group art show. Lovely gallery and boutique!)
YoungBlood Gallery- Group Home Show
Opening December 4, Saturday 7pm - 11pm
through December 26
636 N. Highland Ave.
Atlanta, GA 30306

(around the corner from my studio, in a beautiful building with some amazing artists)
Telephone Factory Art Show
December 4, Saturday 11am - 7pm
December 5, Sunday 1pm - 6pm
828 Ralph McGill Boulevard, NE
Atlanta, Georgia 30306

(pottery show - over 100 artists!)
MudFire Holiday Studio Sale '10
November 26 - December 23
with an Artist's Reception and Holiday Party at MudFire!!!
December 4, 5 -9 pm
175 Laredo Drive
Decatur, GA 30030

and...

1st Annual Jeanette Zeis Ceramics & TwoFour Manufacturing Studio Open House
(Please join us for a combination house-warming and studio tour. We would love to see you and show you around our studio. Plus, we will have snacks!!!)
December 11, Saturday 3pm - 9pm
658 Angier Ave. NE
Unit A
Atlanta, GA 30308

No, I haven't forgotten that I have a blog.

2010-10-25T04:46:00.000-07:00

Hi. Just a quick post to let you know where I have been and where I am going!

First- I moved. Apartment and studio into one lovely space. It is slowly getting set-up. Nothing like doing a major move right before the holiday season! Brilliant planning on my part, I must say. Here is a look at my empty studio:

It is no longer empty, but is slowly filling with new work. My first firing in the new-to-me kiln resulted in a finished piece for the upcoming Day of the Dead Show at YoungBlood Gallery, here in Atlanta. Opening is Saturday, October 30. Show is up until November 23. Always a fun show, check it out if you get the chance. Sneak peek of my piece (will give you an idea of an idea that I am hashing-out):

Otherwise, it is lots of berry bowls, cupcake stands and hanging bowls. Doing my first glaze firing in the next couple of days. Fingers-crossed that my glazes work in the different kiln! I'll let you know how it goes.

Purple Elephant Cake.

2010-09-09T21:01:00.000-07:00

Go pick up a cupcake (or a whole cake!) and take a peek at some of my cake stands. Now for sale at Purple Elephant Cake in New York City.

Run by Candy and Jin, these ladies know how to bake a delicious sounding cupcake. After perusing their menu, I decided the "Sweet & Salty" sound divine, "a match made in heaven. Rich condensed milk cake, salty caramel buttercream topped with pink Himalayan fleur de sel drizzled with caramel." And will attempt a vegan version once the fall weather hits. (and after we have moved into our new apartment!!!! yay!!! moving!!!)

My summer vacation.

2010-09-02T18:57:00.001-07:00

I wouldn't really call it a "vacation," but this summer has been surprising and fun and busy. Oh yeah, and really really really hot. But you probably already knew that part.

And just when we think we feel a bit of chill in the air *BOOM* back into the 90's we go.

This August I had the luxury of attending two wonderful pottery events. A Diana Fayt workshop at Mudfire Studio. And an anagama firing at Hambidge Arts Center.

The Diana Fayt workshop was something that I had looked forward to for months. I am a huge fan of her artwork. And have admired her for years. Her pieces are just divine. She gave a lovely slideshow and artist's lecture. And the demonstration was very informative.

It was a hands-on workshop, so everybody worked along side each other. It was great to see everyone's pieces coming together and watching the process from beginning to end. You can see us being good students and working away here.

According to Diana's etsy shop- she is working on a shop overhaul. Can't wait to see what she comes up with next! I suspect it will be amazing.

Here are a couple of the pieces I made.

I am not sure how/if this will get translated into my own work. I loved the process. And very much enjoy the final product. But it just doesn't feel like my own. So I am doing a few tests that incorporate her technique- hopefully I will find something that works for me. I enjoyed the drawing part very much. I don't do enough of that.

The very next weekend was the anagama firing. I saw a bear! I put up a tent! I hung out in the mountains for the weekend! It was fantastic! As a country-girl at heart, getting out of the city is such a treat. It was quiet. I could see the stars.

I had never done any woodfiring before. So this was all new. From loading the kiln to stoking the fire. A group of about 20 potters pitched in to get it done. Led by Rick Berman and Tom Egan.

The anagama kiln gets fired only a couple of times a year. And every year, I say "I'm going to do it this year." And every year, I fail. But not this year. And I'm glad I finally did it. It was a blast.

Next firing is October. So if you are in the area, sign-up! I don't know if I will be able to make the October firing, but I hope to.

Here is my favorite piece.

And a few shots of the process.

Hope this post finds you well and enjoying the last bits and pieces of your own summer! For me, well, its time to get back to work (just kidding, I didn't ever leave... I just left the internet.) I have some exciting news and plans for the end of 2010 and into 2011. Looking forward to sharing it with you!

And so it goes.

2010-06-06T20:10:00.000-07:00

Since my last post, back in March, things have been a little bit crazy for me. In a good way. But today was my last craft show until September. So I will be able to catch up in the next month or so.

I have a lot of thinking/planning to do about my business. Where it is going and how I want to get there. It has become very clear that I need some organization. I like to think that I am on top of things, but it always feels like I am just barely on top of things. This slightest push, and the whole pile would fall right over. And then down into a chasm. Into a river, over a waterfall and out to sea.
This year has been good, but hard. I was very honored to be chosen as etsy's Featured Seller in April. However, this increase in activity has really made me recognize that I need to get it together a bit more. Especially if I want to continue growing and maintain some sanity.

Anyway, a quick parting shot of my booth. I would love to see other artist's booth shots. I always feel like I have a horrible booth shot to submit on applications. I never realized how sloppy my booth looked until I saw the photos. Would love some feedback and any insight into what jurors are looking for in a booth shot.

And a "Ding, Scratch and Dent Sale" at my studio. Because, good lord, I need to do some cleaning out!

Saturday, June 19th 10am-6pm
588 Woodward Ave. Atlanta 30312

roadside pottery.

2010-03-02T20:18:00.000-08:00

There is something so satisfactory about throwing pots in the morning. Setting them out to dry for a bit and then trimming them up before going home for the day.

Rarely in pottery do you get such immediate satisfaction. Lots of waiting in this game, isn't there?

impromptu studio shot.

2010-02-25T20:36:00.000-08:00

I accidentally took this photo as I was setting up another picture and just moving my camera about. I didn't think twice about the shot, didn't even look at it when I uploaded the days photos. Today, as I was looking through iPhoto to find another picture, I came across it. I quite liked it.

I hardly ever take photos other than pictures of pots for etsy. Feeling kinda inspired to start!

Starting to ramp up for a few upcoming festivals. Got a couple of new ideas to hash-out. So I'll be spending a lot of time in the above photo. Looking forward to it!

Pots for me.

2010-02-16T16:43:00.000-08:00

I have been slowly finishing up a set of majolica dishes for myself. I wanted something completely different than my usual look and since I adore the beautiful red pots of so many other potters (Ayumi Horie, Kari Radasch, Ron Philbeck etc...), I ventured into earthenware.

I LOVE it. I loved throwing with it. I loved decorating it. I still have noodle bowls and plates to decorate. And a cake stand. When I get the time, I will finish those up.

Set of hanging bowls in my kitchen:

Feeling a very strong urge to do a serious red earthenware/majolica exploration. Not sure if it will actually see fruition or not. Wondering if it such a prudent idea to jump around in what I produce. I'm always telling myself that I need to focus and establish myself. But man, are the ideas swimming around in my head.

I'm not crazy about the actual decorating that I did, need to work on my drawing skills abit. But enjoy the overall feel. Maybe I can warm up the majolica base (with red iron? anyone? I'm using Linda Arbuckle's recipe.)

Pasta bowl with curry dinner:

homework.

2010-02-05T07:04:00.001-08:00

There are some tasks that I put off and put off and put off. One of them is glaze testing. I'm not sure why, because I actually enjoy doing it and love to open the kiln after I have fired them. I guess it's just not as fun as throwing. So when Michael Kline gave this assignment to his readers, I took it as a challenge to finally do what I had been putting off. A load of glaze tests. Using two base glazes and a variety of oxides/stains.

Now to wait for the kiln to cool so I can see the results!

yay! for february!

2010-02-01T18:08:00.000-08:00

I don't know how anybody else feels about it, but I'm glad January is over. It just felt like one set-back after another. First I couldn't get my clay. Then I couldn't get the kiln to fire properly. Plus, I learned that one of my glaze bases crazes on the clay I am switching to. Just couldn't seem to fire on all cylinders.

And I had such big plans for January. Oh well. Onward and upward! Things are already looking up. The Vegan Bake Sale raised over $1300 for Doctors Without Borders. Even though the weather was horrible. Thanks for organizing Kristin! So many yummy goodies were eaten. I definitely had my fill, don't you worry.

(sugar-free ceramic cupcakes by Heather at artreverie.etsy.com)

Cake Plate Giveaway!

2010-01-24T07:29:00.000-08:00

Enter to win an Eyelet Cake Stand!
http://www.theweddingco.com/thedailynews/2010/01/handmade-stand-item-no-4-cake-stand/

Hurry! Contest ends on Monday! And there haven't been very many entries so you have a good chance of winning!

(Their description is slightly wrong though, it is a 10" stand in glossy white. Not matte ivory... oh well.)

Time for a sugar overload.

2010-01-23T20:04:00.000-08:00

YEA!!! Lots of vegan baked goods for a good cause! Please come on out if you are in the Atlanta area. Since I'm not much of a baker, I'll have some keychains and a few mugs for sale. All proceeds go to Doctors Without Borders.

Get your sugar rush going!

Facebook page and invite for more information.

Keep it small.

2010-01-16T06:31:00.000-08:00

Great article in NYT regarding a small business that intends to stay small. I found this relevant as I try to picture what I want my own business to look like. Do I want employees, would I want to focus on one product, what if I mass-produced a design, how much wholesale work am I willing to take on...

Not that my business is need the answer to those questions yet. I'm just writing a business plan and am thinking about where I would like to be in 5 years.

Anyway, a good read about keeping your business small. The pros and cons.

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/01/14/business/smallbusiness/14sbiz.html?em

via dianafayt twitter

Resolutions and Re-cap and such.

2010-01-07T14:26:00.000-08:00

Hi all! It's been awhile. The holidays had me in a bind and then, well, I just didn't feel like doing much of anything. But now I'm ready to get back in the game. So let's start off nice and easy, shall we?

A few resolutions:
1. Learn how to run a business, like for real. I very much feel like an amateur business-owner. Time to do some studying and researching and educate myself on good business practices and accounting.

2. Build a new website. This is currently in the works and will hopefully be completed in the next couple of weeks. I'm sure I will continue to tweak it and I will always want to change it, but I would like an off-etsy shopping cart.

3. Stream-line my "product line." I feel like I'm all over the board with the variety of items that I make. I love trying new techniques and glazes, but think I need to clean it up a bit and become more focused on a few key products. (Leaving plenty of room to work on experiments and new techniques though.)

4. Continue to develop my style. I feel like 2009 was a really strong year for me in terms of improving my pottery skills. But I do frequently feel like my work is not quite where I want it to be. And reading Kristin Kieffer's insightful post (and comments) on "Signature Style" reminded me that style will come. "It’s practice, exploration and attentiveness."

5. On a personal note: continue to eat healthy and cook the majority of my meals. Starting with the VeganMoFo back in October, we stopped going out to eat and put ourselves on a food budget. It has been really nice to enjoy cooking again and trying out new recipes. Hope to continue on this path.

Re-cap on pots I'm particularly proud of from this year:

That's all for now! Would love to hear your resolutions and suggestions for the coming year. HAPPY 2010!!!

My pots. This weekend in Atlanta. Where to find 'em.

2009-12-02T19:43:00.001-08:00

This dinnerware set will be part of the "Seasons" exhibit at YoungBlood Gallery. Opening is Saturday, Dec. 5 evening. There will be artwork by 60 artists, each inspired by one of the four seasons. (My season of inspiration was spring.)

AND Cabbagetown Clay and Glass Works Annual Holiday Show and Sale. Preview party on Friday, Dec. 4 6-9pm. And open every weekend in December 10am-4pm. Come on by! You probably find me at the wheel or glazing a pile of bisque ware!
588 Woodward Ave. 30312... right off of I-20.

vegan mofo: winners and samosas.

2009-10-31T18:32:00.000-07:00

Thanks for joining the giveaway everybody! I had fun looking at all the entries, like having my very own "best-of" list.
The winners were randomly chosen by my buddy Kenn, from little strips of paper in a box. So it was fair and square.
(Of course, you are all winners in my book... but I just didn't make enough to go around!)

Mug winners:
jenn
lazysmurf
erin32mc
pixiepine

Keychain winners:
tiffany c
vegga
andrea
jodie
herbstsonne
shannonmarie
bazu
kelly g.
cookingforaveganlover
cornfieldandcookies

I will be emailing everyone in the next day or two to gather mailing addresses. If you don't hear from me, feel free to email me at vegandish@gmail.com!

I had a couple of food-making goals in mind when I started this month. And one of them actually got finished! (The other one did too, but I failed to take pictures as they didn't come out very pretty.) SAMOSAS!!!

I had been wanting to make samosas ever since I bought Vegan With a Vengeance (4 years ago??!!) But was a bit intimidated. I finally gave it a try. They totally ruled. I'll be making lots more of these. So many possibilities.

And now the mofo is done. Hopefully, I will continue to cook most nights. I really do enjoy it again. And I will continue to lurk in the vegan blog world to keep me inspired. Goodnight everybody!

vegan mofo: beans and greens.

2009-10-24T18:30:00.000-07:00

Yay! Keep those entries coming! If you haven't entered, please do!

Part of the reason I wanted to participate in the mofo is because our food budget is out of control. It is not uncommon for us to go to the grocery store for one meal's worth of ingredients and end up spending $40. Do that a few times a week, and it just is way too much money. Or we just get tired and lazy and end up eating out. I mean, Soul Vegetarian is literally right around the corner. Closer than the grocery store. How can you resist that?

So I figured doing the mofo would be a great way to force myself to cook everyday. And surprisingly enough, I pretty much have. I think I went out to eat only once so far this month. Sure, I haven't posted as much as I was planning, but that's okay. I really just wanted to get back into cooking.

When I first became vegan, I made EVERYTHING from scratch. Granola, bread, vegetable broth. I didn't eat any processed foods. And then I discovered that lots of processed foods are vegan. And I became a bit of a junk food vegan.

I know that eating whole foods is better for me. I feel the difference when I eat loads of crap versus a nutritionally-packed meal. None the less. Convenience often reigns. I could stand to lose SEVERAL pounds. So it is time for me to clean it up a bit.

Here is a delicious and nutritious and quick meal (and cheap!) meal that I made for lunch:

Kale + white beans + shallots + splashed with hot sauce.

vegan mofo: its a mofo giveaway!

2009-10-22T16:18:00.000-07:00

Well folks, the vegan month of food is almost over! Its been overwhelming, my reader is jam-packed with enough reading to keep me occupied for several more months. I realized that I eat a lot of orange food. I re-discovered that I like kale.

Hopefully you are having fun, too. And want to remember it enough to enter a contest for a "vegan mofo" mug and keychains!!! I have three mugs and several keychains, so there will be lots of winners.

Here's how it will go down. Simply leave a comment with a link to your favorite blog entry/recipe for the month (can be yours or someone else's) All relevant comments will be entered into the random drawing. To be picked and announced on October 31.

(If your profile/blog does not include an email address, please drop me a line at vegandish@gmail.com to make sure I have your contact information!)

Sorry, but this contest is only open to participates of vegan mofo.

***unrelated giveaway for one of my cupcake stands (and lots of other great stuff!) on another blog***
Cinnamon*Sticks Boutique: 12 Days of Christmas

vegan mofo: morning oatmeal.

2009-10-20T06:47:00.000-07:00

I have trouble making myself eat breakfast in the morning. So I'm trying to get in the habit of eating oatmeal while I do my morning computer work.

It's quite good with raspberries and almonds. And a Kristen Kieffer bowl.

What do you eat for breakfast? I need fast and simple. And vaguely healthy.

vegan mofo: chili and cornbread.

2009-10-17T20:14:00.000-07:00

This meal was from early this week. But it is still relevant today. Because the weather is fall-like and perfect for chili and cornbread.

And also, a picture of the kitten.

vegan mofo: tofu heavies.

2009-10-16T20:08:00.000-07:00

It has been a week of repeats, so I haven't posted. But I have been eating.

And I have been working on something for a vegan mofo giveaway! Yay!

This is Kenn's recipe. His red beans and rice are also pretty kick-ass.

freeze and thaw/drain tofu
cut into 1" strips
spice rub: 2 T. salt, 2 T. paprika, 2 t. garlic powder, 1 t. cayenne
liberally sprinkle onto tofu
dip into all-purpose flour
dip into soymilk
re-dip into flour

heat 1/2" vegetable oil to 350. fry for 10 minutes. flip and fry some more.
eat.

vegan mofo: kitchen companion

2009-10-09T19:48:00.000-07:00

This is Syd. He likes to hang out in the kitchen. Our kitchen is very small. There are 5 squares of linoleum from one counter to the other. You can see that he takes up two. But that's okay. He's a friendly guy and like to stand in the refrigerator when you open the door.

I got Syd a couple of months before I became vegan. I don't really recall if the two events are related. But it's hard to imagine that they aren't. Syd was my first pet that was my responsibility and I was living alone for the first time. I had transferred schools and was really just being lonely and lost and all college-y. Syd has been with me through all the apartment moves (12 in the last 15 years!) And is just a great friend.

(Though not vegan. Which I am not happy about. But am, quite frankly, just too scared to change. I have read Obligate Carnivore and think it makes an excellent case for vegan cats.)

(Dinner was kale, sweet potatoes, white beans and herb-y biscuits. I doused my plate with rice vinegar. Because that is how I roll.)

vegan mofo: done deal.

2009-10-07T14:16:00.000-07:00

There is nothing quite like coming home from a long day at the studio and finding dinner ready and waiting.

It was all good.

vegan mofo: monochromatic meal.

2009-10-06T06:38:00.000-07:00

This happens rather often in our house. Once dinner is plated, I realize everything is the same color. Though it is usually in the white/cream/brown family. And not the green family. Huh.

I was going to make carrot and potato soup. Which I did, but I kicked it up a notch by adding curry seasonings. Delicious.

And we attempted fried chicken tofu, using K.'s grandma's (real chicken) recipe. With some minor tweaking, this will be a new staple, I think. It was pretty tasty, but missing the crispy exterior.

And a biscuit.

vegan mofo: bbq tofu.

2009-10-05T11:28:00.001-07:00

Hey, I live in the south and I love barbeque. Or more to the point, I love barbeque sauce. This is a quick and tasty dinner. For when you just don't feel like cooking but want something totally delicious.

We use frozen tofu. Thaw and press during the day. Freezing the tofu first really gives it a firmer texture. Grill it up in a bit of oil and put in a baking dish.

In a sauce pan, cook some onions and red pepper. Add your bbq sauce of choice, plus some tomato sauce and vegan worcestershire sauce. Cook it down for a few minutes and add to the baking dish. Bake it for about 15 minutes at 400, or until its nice and bubbly.

Favorite bbq sauce:

vegan mofo: biscuits and gravy.

2009-10-02T08:00:00.000-07:00

A couple of weeks ago, Kenn asked for biscuits. Normally, I would just say no. I don't bake. And I sure as hell don't knead and roll-out. And what good are biscuits that aren't round. (sorry drop-biscuits, I'm just not that into you.)

But I figured I would give it a shot. We had everything we needed. So I browsed my cookbooks and most of the recipes were pretty similar. So I measured and mixed. And then I kneaded and rolled and cut and baked.

Way easier than I had imagined and so good. And now I can't stop.

Tonights biscuit: jalapeno and cilantro with lime (couldn't taste the lime)

Rest of the meal: Vegan With A Vengeance's Breakfast Veggie Chorizo (pg. 20) with the addition of some oatmeal flakes and flour to form into patties. With a nutritional yeast gravy.
Snobby Joe's on the side, cause that stuff is good.
Broccoli.

And today, instead of reading mofo blogs all day, I actually need to get to the studio! I can just feel my blog reader getting full and suffocating. How do you plan on staying on top of it all?

vegan mofo 2009.

2009-10-01T09:00:00.000-07:00

In celebration of my 15-year vegan-versary, I am participating in Vegan MoFo.

A really amazing event, where vegan (and non-vegan) blogs around the globe discuss vegan food for the month of October. And since October is the month when I start to use my kitchen again (thanks Atlanta summers) and I just finished reading Julie & Julia (meh), the timing seemed right.

For those of you that are here for the random pottery content, consider this fair warning. There is about to be way more posts. All of them yummy (or not so yummy) vegan food related.

While I don't have a working theme, I do plan on cooking most of the entries. And trying to stretch my somewhat limited culinary skills on some recipes that I have been hesitant to try. But I can tell you this: there will be biscuits. Lots of biscuits.

First up:

Leftover lentil soup.
Jalapeno and chedder biscuits. (HIAV biscuit recipe with 2 minced jalapenos and about 1/3 cup shredded Follow Your Heart chedder cheese)

We don't really eat much vegan cheese, so this is different for us. Kenn loves the jalapeno and cheddar biscuits at Sevenanda (vegetarian food co-op right up the street), so I tried to make them. I thought they were pretty good.

And, of course, leftover lentil soup is always good.

eeeeeeeeeep!

2009-09-30T05:00:00.000-07:00

My pots are in a cookbook! And not just any cookbook. But the 10th Anniversary edition of "How It All Vegan" by Tanya Barnard and Sarah Kramer. Included in the new edition are some beautiful photos of some vegan food porn. And that is where my dishes come in!

Firstly, let me just say that Sarah Kramer is amazing for giving me a chance to be a tiny part of her cookbook.

I went vegan in 1994. (as I typed that, I realized that my 15-year vegan-niversary is in October!!!) And for a long time, I was the only vegan I knew. So when I came across my first copy of "How It All Vegan," I was thrilled to see women who looked like maybe, if I was a little cooler and had a little more punk in me, could be my friends. They were my age and they had their own vegan cookbook! It was love at first sight. I've made many yummy meals, thanks to the cookbook. And am absolutely thrilled at being included in the 10th anniversary edition.

Who knew that would ever happen when I made my first vegan pot, a few years ago??!!

Quiet animals.

2009-08-21T19:20:00.000-07:00

slab roller + clay

+ circle cutter

- excess clay

+ makers mark and star stamp

+ corn starch

(flip over) + rib

+ linocut hedgehog stamp + brayer + underglaze + old glass thingy

+ mold form

+ 24 hours

+ clear glaze

+ kiln magic

= quietanimals.etsy.com

change is good, right?

2009-06-09T20:50:00.000-07:00

I feel a seachange coming over my work. I have been wanting to change my work for awhile now, but wasn't real clear on where I wanted to take it. I've felt a little stagnant lately. And knew it was time for a growth spurt. I just didn't know how.

So I made this flower brick:

I LOVED spending more time on this piece. I was able to be deliberate and thoughtful in the design. And I realized that I miss that aspect of pottery. I'm sometimes too focused on production and speed, that I lose the joy of working in clay.

And I saw a good show at Mudfire, that included Diana Fayt, Whitney Smith and Christa Assad. I've admired the work of these women for some time now. And seeing the work in person is a real treat. It was inspiring. It made me want to make pottery that reflects something more. Something different. So I made these:

After seeing these beautiful cake stands via Jen Mecca's blog. I knew I had to step it up a notch. So I made these:

I feel like I have gotten onto a different path. And I'm enjoying that. We'll see where this road takes me.

just hanging out.

2009-05-26T20:25:00.000-07:00

(I didn't make the ceramic cupcakes. Those are made by my friend Heather. artreverie.etsy.com)

I've become obsessed with the cake stands. I can handle the smaller sizes but still run into issues with the larger (over 10") ones.

They don't even look like my pottery. I'm not really connected to them. I mean, they are lovely and all. But just not my aesthetic.

It really is just an ongoing technical exercise, I guess. I have some ideas on how incorporate them into my style, but haven't wanted to make it more "personal" until I have worked out the technical issues a little more.

nothing to see here.

2009-04-07T20:22:00.000-07:00

Just a lovely handled serving platter. The pot in the previous post didn't make it out of the glaze firing. But I still liked it. Flaws and all. However, it is heavier than I like. Will have to do a better job of trimming the foot on the next attempt.

You know what fact runs in circles around my head? This one:
Ford's Model T (the first car, in 1908) got 20-25 MPG.
Mind-boggling. Thanks Big Oil!

whatever.

2009-03-26T20:56:00.001-07:00

So I was all excited about these oval bowls that I made today. Totally loving them. Enjoying the beautifully trimmed foot and the oval/warped rim. With the snazzy handles. However, as I'm looking at these pictures, I'm thinking "what the hell?" I was all excited to share them with you guys and see what you thought. Now, I'm a little embarrassed.

But I haven't posted in my blog for awhile, so I put them up anyway. Maybe they are just one of those pots that look better in person. And maybe I will love them again when I go back to the studio tomorrow.

Glaze yumminess.

2009-03-17T21:40:00.000-07:00

I'm just having fun trying out some new glaze combos. Love how these glazes bleed together. And a sweet birdie stamp.

Went to American Craft Council show last weekend. I didn't buy anything, but I really wanted to! I think it was the best ACC show I've attended. Seems like they had lots of new artists. Lots of beautiful ceramics. Got some new ideas floating around in my head. Really intrigued by the idea of assemblage and introducing more metal. I've done a few pieces that incorporated metal, and need to revisit that idea.

where are you inspiration??!!

2009-03-10T19:03:00.000-07:00

Ugh. I hate this. But I seem to run in cycles. 2 weeks productive inspiration. 3-4 days of forced work... Luckily it usually runs alongside of my firing schedule. So when I'm not feeling inspired, I have a load of bisque to glaze and then photograph and edit. Which eats up a couple of days. Take a day off to "clean the apartment" and then I'm ready to head back in.

But its been almost a week. I just don't want to make anything.

So I have been re-reading my favorite pottery books, British Studio Ceramics in the 20th Century, by Paul Rice and Christopher Gowing (on amazon.) I was going to post pictures, but realized that would be an infringement of copyright. I will post just one picture of the cover:

It is a great book. With wonderful biographies of lots of potters. Really a nice way to pass a couple of evenings.

I was lucky to be introduced to the work of Lucie Rie early in my pottery instruction. And feel blessed to have seen her work in person at the Metropolitan. You can clearly see her inspiration in my early work. I used to make bottles all the time. I don't think I've made forms like this in 5 years.

(I took some photos of a few old pots and put them on my flickr, if interested.)

learning hurts my brain.

2009-03-07T16:52:00.000-08:00

I've been working with lino-prints and clay. Lots of fun, but I'm having trouble getting the results I'm looking for consistently. I was using semi-dried underglaze as the "ink" and using a brayer for application. But getting the underglaze to the right consistency was difficult and then it would only last a couple of passes.

Shawna, of Pinkkiss, suggested oxides plus linseed oil. Which I tried today. Fabulous!!! Really beautiful and clean prints. But it limits my palette to just oxides. I want color and lots of color choices.

So I tried the linseed with mason/spectrum stains. Didn't work nearly as well as the oxides. When I came home from the studio I looked up the msds sheets for the stains, figuring they must contain some sort of filler that doesn't work well with the oil. Turns out, they contain silica. I'm guessing that is what is changing the results.

Maybe a water-based gel medium will work better. I don't know, but I'm willing to try! If anyone has any suggestions, I'm listening.

snow.

2009-02-28T15:01:00.000-08:00

The forecast calls for snow tomorrow. Which is just crazy. Seriously, I was walking around in short sleeves today.

New spring stamps:

Cupcake stand:

New goal- customized wedding cake stands:
(here is a vegan one in process)

(It really did snow! I know, you guys in the northern climates will think I'm a dork...but it is so lovely and only happens once a year or so!)

fail.

2009-02-21T20:03:00.000-08:00

Rejected pots. So sad. Sorry little buggers, my fault. Shouldn't have rushed the drying. Shouldn't have rushed the glazing. Should have sieved the glaze one more time. Should have tried to patch that crack.

before and after.

2009-02-16T20:27:00.000-08:00

A photo of the before and a couple of photos of the after. I like to plan out my glazing. Set it all out and write in pencil what each piece will be. Anybody else do this? It makes my glazing go so much faster.

I'm mostly happy with the watering can. Would love a critique!

Also working on some new photos. Need to update my gallery shots and application photos.

end of the 100 mugs.

2009-02-01T13:27:00.001-08:00

This is the last of the 100 mugs to come out of the kiln. I realize I got lazy about photographing the final mugs as they were glazed and fired. I'm just not that into my pots once they are finished. I am much more attached to them when they are being made. After they come out of the glaze kiln, I'm over them.

Below are some new pieces in progress. Went from mugs to pourers. Watering cans and teapots. Very fun to work on some challenging forms and new ideas.

optimistic.

2009-01-26T20:50:00.000-08:00

I must be feeling pretty positive to try to make cake-stands again. Or I'm ready to take on a challenge.

I've just made two, but so far so good!

little ol' me.

2009-01-21T06:29:00.001-08:00

With so much going on the past week around the world, I really felt silly putting up a blog post. After all, who wants to read about little ol' me?

But I took this picture a few days ago. I love the picture and the pieces. Turned out just lovely.

All 100 of my mugs have been made. (not finished, just made!) And I have moved on. Well, not totally. I have some new custom orders to fill. And since the pictured mugs sold to a favorite customer, I am going to make some more in that style.

Overall, the 100 mug challenge was a really great motivator. Another artist (unfortunately I don't know who...a featured seller on etsy...I will look it up tonight) once said "the more I make, the more I want to make." And that is definitely the case for me!

68-85.

2009-01-11T14:44:00.000-08:00

I'm really enjoying this bowl-shaped mug. The last 15 will be handbuilt. Looking forward to doing some handbuilding!

Not only has this little exercise been good for building up my inventory. Its been good for refining some of my skills. One of my favorite parts of making a pot is trimming the feet. And I've trimmed a lot of feet lately. I take pride in my well-turned feet. So I'm going to show-off the bottom of my pots:

If you enjoy turning as much as I do, I recommend a good trimming tool. I bought a tool from Bison Tools (etsy shop) last year, and have been very happy with it. I used to buy new trimming tools every month. But haven't bought any since the Bison Tool came into my life. Would love to hear other trimming tool recommendations!

60-67.

2009-01-06T09:16:00.000-08:00

Okay. Starting to get sick of mugs now. Must power through. I have a new design for the last few. But I haven't started them yet.

First 1-30 glazed. (30-35 will remain in bisque state for awhile.) Lost 3 to my persistant clay/glaze fit problem that I continue to ignore...hoping it will go away. But it won't. Otherwise, a really nice firing!

happy new years!

2009-01-01T17:42:00.000-08:00

I started off the new year by spending a few hours at the studio. It was really nice. I made some mugs that spread the love.

The 1-100 challenge continues. The love mugs are #51-59.
The handbuilt mugs below are #36-50.

1-35.

2008-12-29T15:04:00.000-08:00

I am challenging myself to finish 100 mugs as quickly as possible (for me.) Here is 1-35. I started on Dec. 20th. These are mostly "vegan" mugs and about 15 of them are spoken for. These will be going into the bisque kiln tomorrow. It has been rainy and damp, so they are taking forever to dry.

Today we moved our studio back. YAY!!! Great way to start the new year!

And a merry day to you!

2008-12-24T19:52:00.000-08:00

I'm really not much of a holiday person. My family is not nearby, and I don't have children. And most of my friends don't have children. So I really don't get into it.

But I do love the feeling of shared adventure that happens during this time of year. It is a special time. Even if all you do is admire your neighbors decorations.

As a big city dweller, I love to walk around the neighborhood on Christmas day and just enjoy the quiet. Nobody is out in the morning. There is no horn-honking. There is no traffic. Its just...aaaaaahhhhhh...quiet. As a country-girl at heart, I really love that.

Hope everyone has a lovely week and you celebrate the season however you wish.

I would like to take a second to thank everyone for their ongoing support and encouragement of my little clay business. I appreciate that I have a really wonderful opportunity everyday to continue doing what I love. And that is the best present of all!

new love.

2008-12-18T16:29:00.000-08:00

I'm just having a hard time tearing myself away from the lino-cutting. I haven't actually made anything with the new cuts, I've just been enjoying the cutting. Not terribly productive, but very soothing and fun.

Getting a grip.

2008-12-09T19:55:00.000-08:00

Final batch of mugs before the holidays. Most of these are spoken for. I was surprisingly unprepared for the need of wonky vegan mugs.
One more bisque/glaze firings for last-minute custom work and that will be it for the holiday rush!

Hoot!

2008-12-04T19:42:00.000-08:00

'Nuff said.

Berry bowls.

2008-12-02T18:37:00.000-08:00

These have become my absolute favorite thing to make. Something about adding the holes and cutting up the foot. Plus I get to add a strap handle and a bit of stamping.
(Thanks for the picture Roni! daisywares.blogspot.com)

on with the marketing.

2008-11-23T19:33:00.001-08:00

The 7th annual Cabbagetown Clay and Glass Works Studio Sale!!! It's here!

Come out for the food and stay for the pretty artwork!

586 Woodward Ave. Atlanta, GA 30312
Call for directions- 404/840/7121

Preview: Friday, November 27th 6-10pm
Open every weekend in December 10am-4pm, stop by whenever you get the chance.

gosh...this is personal.

2008-11-23T17:50:00.000-08:00

(studio re-construction...actually this picture was taken a couple of weeks ago...construction should be done this week!!!)

This is going to be a bit of a ramble. Sorry.

I very much struggle with the business-side of running my own business. The financial insecurity scares the bejeezus out of me. I frequently struggle to pay my bills. It is a roller-coaster. And I just don't know if I'm cut out for it.

The problem is, I wouldn't know what else to do. Go back to being a health food store grocery buyer? Go back to school and hope for scholarships to get me by? (What the hell would I study?)

I think the truth is that I just don't have the stamina and discipline to get it done. I just want to make stuff. I don't want to have to do the selling, too. I know what I need to do, I'm just a baby about doing it. Why?

Does the part of the brain that doesn't want to diet, the same part that doesn't want to do any marketing? Where is the motivational area of the brain located and what happened to mine?

Anyone?

for the animals.

2008-11-12T18:22:00.000-08:00

Peaceful Prairie Sanctuary has an amazing opportunity to expand their facilities. They only have until the end of the week to raise the money they need for this, so please help quickly if you are able. Please help the animals by helping this wonderful sanctuary.
To donate, please visit their site or go here.

Dear Friend of Peaceful Prairie Sanctuary,
We have an incredible opportunity to expand the sanctuary by 35 acres and to acquire a 4000 square foot home that will be converted into an Education Center and volunteer / intern housing and B&B for sanctuary visitors.

This kind of capital improvement to the sanctuary is 10 years overdue -- but we now have the opportunity to purchase the property for $100,000.00. Thanks to one VERY generous benefactor, we've already raised $70,000.00!!!

We need to raise the other $30,000.00 before the end of the week in order to make a cash offer on the property.

Another family has placed an offer and, due to the Agricultural zoning, they will have to use the land to enslave and exploit animals.

Please help us stop it before it starts, while simultaneously expanding the sanctuary and our ability to care for and advocate for countless more victims of the egg, dairy, flesh producers and consumers.
Time is of the essence - if you are able to contribute to this, please let me know right away.

Thank You!
Michele Alley-Grubb
Peaceful Prairie Sanctuary

Love to Ayumi Horie.

2008-10-26T20:37:00.000-07:00

"I love calling myself a potter; the word itself has no airs or smugness and carries with it a sense of timelessness. Nearly everyone, in every geographic place and at every point in time since human beings created settlements, has understood what a potter does; I feel I am part a meaningful continuum." -Ayumi Horie

Great quote from this amazing potter. Her philosophy and style are inspiring and ring-true. HUGE FAN!

(Plus she just raised $10,000+ for Obama/Biden by arranging a "Obamaware" sale with other potters on eBay.)

Interview here, in American Craft magazine.
Ayumi Horie's website.

world GO VEGAN days

2008-10-24T21:58:00.000-07:00

(Sarah Kramer and a mug! Check out page 42 of the Nov/Dec VegNews!!!)

I don't really talk about my veganism or my politics in my blog. I just stick to my pottery. But that doesn't mean I'm not passionate about these things too!
In conjunction with IDA's "world GO VEGAN days", I'm having a sale in my shops. 20% off all stock (not including shipping.) Simply checkout, and I will send you a revised invoice reflecting the discount.

Several members of the Vegan Etsy team are doing a promotional event from October 25 - 31 for World GO VEGAN Days.
**To see what other stores are participating in this
event, please visit our blog at www.veganetsy.blogspot.com.
***For for information about veganism and World Go Vegan Days, go to: www.worldgovegandays.com or
www.govegannow.com

Wax resist. A studio favorite.

2008-10-15T21:45:00.000-07:00

This wonderfully orange liquid is multi-faceted. Not only is it great for glazing...keeping glaze away from where you don't want it. But it is really helpful in controlling the drying of pieces.

I used to get cracking at joints and handles when I tried to dry quickly. The uneven drying was just not good. Handles would dry quicker than the mug, and cause the handle to crack at the point of contact.

One way to solve this is to dry slowly. But, I'm not a fan of that technique.

This is where the wax resist comes in. Apply to the joint/handle after it has dried under plastic for one night. After that, the piece can air dry. So much faster than leaving it under plastic for days on end.

Yea! Wax!

Easily distracted.

2008-10-13T09:40:00.000-07:00

I am quite sure that if I could just buckle down and focus on the pottery that I already make, I might be more successful. However, I just can't help it! Ideas pop in my head and roam around and have to be executed.

I made some lino-cut stamps awhile back, and have wanted to do some clay items with the stamps ever since. I also needed something to use up some colored recycled clay.

So I made some sweet little dishes. Took me several tries before I figured out the whole printing on clay bit. And I ended up with some really warped dishes. But a few of them came out really cute!

Available in my etsy shop!

Corn starch. A studio favorite.

2008-10-10T18:52:00.000-07:00

Seriously, now that I have discovered corn starch for the studio, I am one happy camper. I don't know why it took me so long to figure out.

Sometimes, when handbuilding, the clay is too wet and can get sticky. Causing it to stick where I don't want it to stick. A little sprinkling of corn starch and I'm good to go.

Perfect for achieving clean stamping before the clay becomes leather-hard. Or working with a slab on a bat, before making the final form.

PLUS it is super cheap and re-usable!

Where I am.

2008-09-28T15:27:00.000-07:00

I haven't forgotten about my blog, I've just been in production-land. I am finally feeling caught up on orders and am working on building up inventory for a bunch of holiday shows. Including one next weekend in Atlanta:

Please stop by for the First Annual Hand Crafted Fall Showcase. Click on the invitation to see enlarged version.

A group of local Atlanta Etsy sellers (including me) will be having a private backyard event. It will be like going to your own personal art festival. There will be finger foods and lots of giveaways. Thanks and feel free to spread the word. Send me an email for directions! (jeanettezeis [@] gmail.com)

Scarred.

2008-09-10T19:39:00.000-07:00

Sorry if you are squeamish! But it is kinda cool looking.

I have the biggest thumbs ever and they are very dear to me, so I was freaked out when I sliced one up really good. I had the brilliant idea to make a commemorative mosaic with my crashed pottery. My pottery felt otherwise.
But, it is all good. It doesn't hurt (unless I bang it on something, which I do, about twice a day.) However, it itches like crazy. Stitches come out on Monday.

Thanks to everyone that came out to our Spaghetti Fundraiser. It was an amazing turn-out and a wonderful show of support for our little co-op! I waited some tables and made some salads. It was a blast, but I am glad I was only a waitress for one night!

Basket tray.

2008-09-04T08:28:00.000-07:00

Nothing but pretties in this post.

I've been working on a couple of these handbuilt basket tray thing-ies. Oh-my how I like the way they look. But oh-my how they like to crack in the corners and on the bottom. My inexperience with handbuilding is starting to show as I try to get more technical and challenging in the forms.

Can I just take a second to say I love the glazes on these??!! (Still run like they are on fire, but so so so pretty.)

Cabbagetown Clay and Glass Works fundraising event.

2008-08-29T16:48:00.000-07:00

Carla and Heather have been just amazing at organizing a fund-raising event for our studio. If you are in the Atlanta area, please come out and enjoy some yummy food for a good cause. Purchase tickets or donate HERE.

Thank you for all the well-wishes. It means a great deal to me! I really appreciate all the support and positive vibes!

Ummm...yeah.

2008-08-26T17:30:00.000-07:00

This is what a studio co-op looks like when it gets hit by a truck. In case you were wondering.

A car hit a truck, then the truck hit the corner of our building. Fortunately nobody was hurt. Just lots of broken pottery.

As it turns out, the space next to ours was empty. Our landlady was kind enough to let us move some equipment and work into the space. Hopefully we will be able to set-up temporary shop there until re-construction is complete.

I see lots of hard work in our near future!

More pictures of the destruction here. Thanks Heather!

...SALE...

2008-08-16T09:52:00.000-07:00

I'm getting over-run by pots. And really would like to clear out some older work to make room for new work. So help a gal out! Check here for deals.

One busted cakestand.

2008-08-10T16:06:00.001-07:00

Results from the "pop" in the kiln. Much more destructive to the cakestand than I imagined. But, amazingly, nothing else was hurt. I've never seen anything this demolished from a bisque kiln!

(Upside-down cake stand in the background is what those shards are supposed to look like...)

Kiln avoidance.

2008-08-09T13:34:00.000-07:00

Normally, I am excited to open a kiln and pull things out of it. But not today. I fired a bisque kiln yesterday, with 2 custom cake stands (I must be a glutton for punishment) and a set of custom bowls. About 4 hours into it, I hear a load "pop." This sort of tragedy is rare at our studio. Very rare. So I didn't even recognize what it was. Until about 20 minutes later. So I got freaked and peaked in the kiln. It was a cake stand. I could see that it was totally busted. Hopefully there aren't too many other casualties. But I'd much rather wait until tomorrow to find out. No reason to rush the pain.

Glaze tests.

2008-07-30T15:22:00.000-07:00

I have gotten a little bored with my current glazes, so I've been doing a few test batches to find some new colors. Basically, a glaze is a recipe of chemicals/minerals. I currently use one base glaze and add different colorants/oxides for the different colors. But I cannot get red/burgandy with my base glaze, so I'm looking for a new base glaze. After a number of tries, these are some good results. A couple of nice reds to explore and a totally kick-butt purple. As well as a nice green. Unfortunately, the glaze is runny...so I will may have to adjust the base glaze a bit to keep the glaze on the pots and not on the kiln shelf!

VeganDish International starts.

2008-07-09T16:31:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Sarah Kramer. Could she be any cuter?

Article from D la Repubblica delle Donne (page 66-67)

Translation according to babelfish:
Better a caprese post punk or the psico cake?

Translation according to iGoogle:
Caprese a better post punk or psycho cake?

Clearly, something was lost in translation....

Motivation to keep on keepin' on.

2008-07-08T09:07:00.000-07:00

Great clip from Ira Glass that is appropriate for anyone working in the arts/creative fields. Really timely for where I am at right now. I am working through my middle ground to get to where I want to be.

Please don't get me wrong, I like what I make. I really do. I wouldn't put it out there, if I didn't. I am proud of what I have accomplished. But my work doesn't quite match up to the standards that I'm shooting for. Know what I mean?

Lemonade Service.

2008-07-04T16:47:00.000-07:00

Happy 4th of July!

I've been an absentee-blogger lately. Been in a bit of a studio-funk. Feeling a little unmotivated and uninspired. It happens. It will pass (I hope!)

But I did make this new pitcher and tumblers with a scalloped serving tray. The pitcher has a sieve at the spout, so you can just throw in your lemons and ice and not worry about them falling in your cup!

Finished cake stand!

2008-06-13T16:37:00.000-07:00

This is the 2nd cake stand that has made it all the way to the end. I liked the aqua glaze that Idalys chose for her stand so much, that I had to glaze this one in the same color! (It does have a small crack on the underside, but I'm going to let that pass and offer it at a small discount in my etsy shop.)

Looks so nice with Heather's ceramic cupcakes!

Indie Craft Experience.

2008-06-10T13:04:00.000-07:00

Although this event goes by the name, ICE, it was blazing hot. I shared a booth with my studio-mate Tania Julian. It was the first event we've done together and it went pretty well. Tania was inspired and has lots of new ideas to explore. I was too hot to come up with anything new. I did trade for a great new lunch kit from Becky of Glue and Glitter. Now if I can just get in the habit of packing my lunch everyday instead, I'd save a great deal of money.

VeganDish website. Pictures wanted!

2008-05-26T08:24:00.000-07:00

I've been working on my VeganDish website for several months now. Since this is not something that comes naturally to me, its been a bit of a challenge (even using a template). And continues to be a work in progress.

Since I've seen many great photos of VeganDishes in use, I thought I would include a section of "Dishes in Action". Especially since I'm a vegan-food-blog reader and admirerer. And especially since my own attempts at food photography have been not good because:

1. I don't cook as much as I should.
2. I really am not a good photographer. Shots of my pottery is about all I can manage.

So here is my call for photographs! Got a picture of your favorite Vegan mug in action? Send it my way! I'd love to include it!

(Now, who want to volunteer to help rebuild jeanettezeis.com? Trade you for a set of dishes...seriously.)

Road trip!

2008-05-20T12:36:00.000-07:00

I recently went to Richmond, VA to do an artist market and visit a friend (mostly to visit a friend, the market was just a good excuse to get out of town.)

This is the "Big Peach" water tower that is near the border of North Carolina and South Carolina. As a kid growing-up in South Carolina, whenever we passed the Big Peach it meant we were in for a LONG ride. (Actually, it still means that I am in for a long ride.) Usually seen on the way to my grandparents homes in New Jersey.

At the artist market, my booth was located directly across from the Duke's mayonnaise truck. Check out the face on that kid. What's the deal?
They were handing out cups of mayonnaise and with a couple of potato chips. Now, don't get me wrong, I love junk food....ALOT, but mayonnaise and potato chips? Ew.

This is Scoops McAlister. He is just about the most adorable.

Quirk Gallery bought a few pieces. I am excited to be part of their shop. And it rained. And we ate at a really good vegetarian restaurant. And it is good to be home.

Recycling clay. Yuck.

2008-05-11T17:19:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I have to trick myself into doing things I don't like. I don't like recycling clay. Its amazingly messy, time-consuming and smelly. (Yes, smelly.) So to make it more exciting my recycled clay is becoming colored clay. So far I have blue, black and yellow. With grey and pink on the way...

Step 1: Dry out trimmings.

Step 2: Slake down trimmings with water and about 1/2 cup of vinegar. (Vinegar is to assist in breakdown of trimmings and aid in plasticity. Potters have also been known to use beer and *gross warning* pee.)

Step 3: Add colorant. I have been using a combination of mason stains and oxides.

Step 4: Mix well and run through sieve to remove lumps and homogenize.

Step 5: Transfer mixture to old pillowcase, and set out to drain.

Step 6: After a few days, clay will be firm enough to wedge-up and use!

Cake stand #5.

2008-05-11T17:05:00.000-07:00

I've been attempting to make a cake stand for a local Atlanta vegan baker, Dulce Vegan. (Her baked goods are yummy and available at Cosmos on the weekends.) Its been trying. This is # 5. I really hope it makes it. #1-4 did not fare well (obviously, since there are no pictures of them.)

Idalys....cross your fingers!

The good with the bad.

2008-04-23T08:06:00.001-07:00

I'm not going to bore you with the details, but I've been having trouble with my kiln (and my life...) Making kiln-firing a real nail-biting situation. Will I lose a lot of work to cracks and mis-fitting glazes? Will I want to throw-up when I open the kiln? What color is not going to work this time?
But along with the bad, there was some good. Like these new juice cups.

Bunny-butt bowls!

2008-04-19T19:41:00.000-07:00

Its spring! Which means bunnies! I've made a few bunny butt bowls (and some creamer and sugar jar sets to come later this week) to sell in my etsy shop (vegandish.etsy.com). 100% of the proceeds will go to the Farm Sanctuary.

While the bunny-butts make an occasional appearance in my pottery, I don't make them that often. (About once a year...usually around spring.) The bunny-butt stamp is handmade by me.

Handbuilt.

2008-04-07T18:18:00.000-07:00

For a self-proclaimed die-hard wheelthrower, I sure am doing a lot of handbuilding these days. It is exciting to look at clay in a whole new light. I've been working on the mugs. Still not happy with the handle, but I really love being able to bring my cut-glass textures into functional pieces.
I think this new appreciation/interest came from working on my baskets, which have handbuilt elements...

Not purple.

2008-04-07T18:14:00.000-07:00

This is what happens when you don't test a new batch of glaze before committing it to pieces of pottery. It's not right! Not purple!!! Argh.
So, the lesson? Always test your new batches of glaze. Even if you are SURE you followed the recipe correctly.

Finished scallops.

2008-03-26T18:41:00.001-07:00

First batch of finished scallops. I had a bit of loss, because I rushed them and should have taken more time in the drying. But still, they make for a nice photo. I've already started the next batch. I promise to take my time this go-round!

Scallop-happy.

2008-03-20T18:41:00.000-07:00

I went a little overboard. I couldn't seem to stop. Can't wait to see how these turn out. I'm really not a frilly-frilly girly-girl. Really. But you'd never know it from the look of these small dishes.

Grad school?

2008-03-19T20:22:00.000-07:00

Sometimes the truth hurts. Which is why I hesitate to go to grad school or even apply. But I think it time. I just missed the deadline, and won't be able to apply again until Jan '09. Which means I wouldn't start school until Fall '09. Which feels really far away.

Soda-firing.

2008-03-18T19:51:00.000-07:00

I have been taking a class at Callanwolde Fine Arts Center for the last 2 months. The focus was on throwing and firing the soda kiln. I won't go into the class...just not what I had been expecting when I signed up. But we did unload the last firing last night, and I FINALLY got some good results.
The picture above is the ceramics director at Callanwolde, Glenn Dair, unloading the kiln. A soda kiln is much different then an electric kiln (which is what I use.) It is fired with gas and creates a different atmosphere within the kiln. At the right temperature, a baking soda/water/soda ash mixture is sprayed into the kiln. The soda then vaporizes and travels through the kiln. The resulting alkaline atmosphere creates some great glaze variation. Check out my favorite teabowl:

Cards?

2008-03-13T19:56:00.000-07:00

That's right. Cards. Available at VeganDish. The inspiration for these cards are many. Here is a list in order to break it down for you.

1. I love print-making techniques of all kinds but really haven't done any in years and years. Ever since I joined etsy, I've admired the work of Sonia Romero (sheridesthelion.etsy.com. So I finally splurged on some supplies and got to cutting some lino.

2. The critter challenge for the etsy mud team is this month. I couldn't decide on a critter. Spent lots of time looking at animal books and thinking about animals. I still haven't made anything for the challenge but I had to make SOMETHING animal-related. (Stay tuned for the critter challenge...from the previews I've seen its going to be very, very cute.)

3. These guys.

4. I've been wanting to make a line, where the proceeds specifically go to charity. The sale of these cards will allow me to donate to various non-profit organizations that need support. Hopefully, I will be able to rotate the charities every few months and spread the love.

5. Every now and then you've got to change it up! Try something new! Expand your horizons!

Anyway, I hope you like them! I've got more critters to print! Hedgehogs and squirrels and birds and maybe an armadillo?

In Portland? Get to Herbivore!

2008-03-10T18:25:00.000-07:00

VeganDish is now available at Herbivore. While you are there be sure to check out the rest of the vegan mini-mall. I'm so jealous. People in Portland don't know how good they got it.

PURPLE!

2008-03-10T18:20:00.000-07:00

I'm having a love affair with this new glaze color. So fresh and springy.

Fusion ceramics.

2008-03-05T06:18:00.000-08:00

I got a request for some "vegan" bowls that incorporated my other (wonky) style. At first I was a little hesitant because I thought it would just be too much. But they turned out sweet. So be on the look out for more fusion work...

Studio Visitors.

2008-02-18T17:00:00.000-08:00

Most days there isn't much traffic in the studio. But today was different. Lots of rustling. Lots of scampering. Lots of activity happening in my peripheral vision.
So I'm off to find some humane traps. Because the exterminator has been mentioned. And I just don't see any need to kill these cute guys. Any suggestions?

I offered them (there are at least 4) potato chips and trail mix. The potato chips were gone first. They also like the biodegradable packing peanuts made from cornstarch.

Urban Cottage.

2008-02-17T12:53:00.000-08:00

Dropped off some new work to Urban Cottage. The store looks fabulous and they have done an amazing job with the space. Recently re-located not far from my house. Yippee! Full of lots of beautiful things.

Salt & Pepper Challenge.

2008-02-03T17:44:00.000-08:00

The Etsy Mud Team Salt and Pepper Shaker Challenge takes place February 3 - February 9.
You should go right away to the Etsy Mud Team website and check out all the entries. Vote for your favorite and you will be entered into the raffle to win some pottery!

Since I've never made salt & pepper shakers, this was a challenge indeed. But I really had fun handbuilding something new.

Michigan bound.

2008-01-18T19:05:00.001-08:00

Dinnerware set going to Michigan (well, almost, I still have a few pieces in the kiln...fingers-crossed) There is something soothing about making a dinnerware set. Especially this one, the glaze choice is so subtle and tranquil. And I think it is really great that people appreciate and want handmade objects for everyday use.