Collecting With Intention

Collecting With Intention

Collecting with Intention:

Choosing Ceramics That Speak to You When it comes to collecting ceramics, it’s not just about function or form. It’s about feeling. A handmade piece carries the rhythm of its maker. The subtle variations, the weight in your hand, the imperfect beauty, these are what make it personal. Whether you’re new to collecting or have a seasoned eye, here are a few thoughtful ways to choose pieces that resonate:

1. Begin with a Feeling

Notice what draws you in. Is it the curve of a handle, the echo of a leaf, the color of earth? A meaningful piece often feels familiar in a quiet way, like it’s been waiting for you.

2. See Beyond Usefulness

Bowls, cups, vases. These objects can serve a purpose, but they can also hold a mood, a memory, or a moment. Choose pieces that invite you to slow down or simply bring you joy.

3. Learn the Story

Handmade ceramics come with a story. The process is slow and intentional. Knowing how a piece was formed can deepen your appreciation for it. My own work, for example, is rooted in what I call FloraSentimentalism, a devotion to the emotional and visual life of plants.

4. Live With It

Consider how the piece might feel in your home, not just how it will look. Will it hold flowers from your garden, rest by the sink, or spark a conversation at the table?

5. Follow the Gentle Yes

Let yourself linger. If a piece stays with you in thought, if you imagine it in your space, if it brings a sense of calm or delight, you’ve found something worth holding onto. Collecting handmade ceramics is not about having more. It is about surrounding yourself with what feels true. What reflects your values. What honors the beauty of slow, intentional living.