Today we’d like to introduce you to Shana Salaff.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Shana. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I’ve lived in Northern Colorado for over ten years, although I’m originally from Toronto, Canada. I took my first ceramics class when I was about only about seven years old, and that experience must have stuck with me because when I had the chance to work with clay again as a teenager, I was hooked! I did my first formal studies in ceramics at the School of Crafts and Design at Sheridan College. This was a wonderful program and I credit it for teaching me the essentials of design as well as my skills in clay and the understanding of the importance of a high level of crafts-ship in my work.
After receiving my diploma from Sheridan, I moved to Canada’s East Coast to study ceramics and painting at the Nova Scotia College of Art and Design in Halifax, Nova Scotia. After graduating with my Bachelor of Fine Arts, I opened up my own business, Wareshana Pottery. I loved my customers and the work I was making, but after seven years, I ultimately decided to go back to school to earn my Master of Fine Arts in ceramics. My grandmother lived in the LA area, so I chose a school nearby at California State University, Fullerton. Because my parents were American citizens, I am a dual Canadian/American citizen and have felt at home in both countries since I was a child.
Another graduation later, and I found myself at a wonderful artist residency in Fort Collins at Art 342, and then a second residency at the PauKune Wanner Art Haus in Severence. I began teaching at a number of local colleges and fell in love with Fort Collins, eventually moving back in 2010, and I’ve loved living here ever since! I’m currently doing less teaching and more making. My work is available online via my Etsy shop, as well as at Trimble Court Artisans Gallery in Fort Collins, and Madison and Main Gallery in Greeley. I also write articles on ceramics for two national ceramics magazines, Pottery Making Illustrated and Ceramics Monthly.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
When I look back, I see that my love for ceramics has been a constant thread for me. That’s what has kept me going during times that I’ve struggled. It’s hard to make a living as an artist, but my studio always calls me back to it! Making pottery is such a joy, and making art that people enjoy using in their everyday life is a reward in itself.
We’d love to hear more about your art.
I make fun and elegant pottery for everyday use. Each surface is decorated like a painting with bright colors and floral patterns. What sets my pottery apart is my attention to detail and my unique style. I put my heart and soul into each piece so that people can add works of art to their daily life. My mugs transform the everyday act of drinking coffee or tea into an aesthetic experience.
So, what’s next? Any big plans?
I’m working on expanding my online business to include a wider range of items. I’m also working on making tiles featuring my decorative patterns and larger wall pieces.
Pricing:
- Cups $35
- Mugs $45
- Teapots $120 – $150
- Sushi Servers $80+
- Soap Dishes $55-$65
Contact Info:
- Address: 3519 Stratton Dr, Fort Collins CO 80525
- Website: www.shanasalaff.com
- Phone: 714-914-3009
- Email: shanasalaff@gmail.com
- Instagram: @shanasalaffartist
- Facebook: Facebook.com/shanasalaffartist
- Other: etsy.com/shop/shanasalaff
Image Credit:
Arent Greve, Shana Salaff
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