Ceramics and Art by Sweet Tarnation

Objects aren’t always the sum of their materials. We place emotions and memories on things that we carry with us through our lives. They become a thread in the fabric of our time together, shaping how we feel or acting as an anchor for a feeling. Recalling how a bowl feels in your hand can call back a vivid image of a loved one. Seeing sunset colors on a canvas can bring up a smile that you didn’t think was possible that day. Things are just things, but what they make us feel is more than materials. It’s what keeps us connected. Sweet Tarnation is a place of thoughtful, everyday objects that make life sweeter. 

Check out available vessels here!

Why buy from local artisans?

We all know that supporting local makers is a good thing. Without our supporters/customers we can’t do what we do on any real scale. Making art is an instinct, something artists have in their bones that almost comes out as a compulsion. We have to build with our hands to feel whole, and making a living with those instincts and creations is how we thrive. Being able to focus on our art and keep exploring our craft keep artists going. Having that time and freedom to continue to develop designs and techniques keeps us happy and you coming back for more. When you purchase something from a local artist, you’re not only putting money back into your community and getting something completely unique in the process, but you’re helping to validate a life choice. You’re telling artists that what they’re doing has value and is important to a happy local economy. It may seem like a small act on your part; putting your money where your community is. To us makers it is a life line. It’s validation that what we do is worth the time and effort we put into it.

How to Support Your Local Artists and What We Offer

The best thing you can do to support your local artists is to seek them out and talk to us! We love chatting with folks about our passions. Giving you insight into our processes and materials is a joy and it gives you a look into what goes into each piece. Knowing the time and techniques we’ve learned to bring these items to you is essential to understanding their value. We put hours into each item, sometimes days or even weeks. Slow art takes time and we make sure to give it the necessary attention.

Big Box supply chains have really diminished the value seen in locally-made goods. There’s no doubt you can get something produced on a large scale that would substitute for artisan-made mugs, artwork, textiles, etc. These larger companies bank on being able to give you something just good enough to work for you, often exploiting small businesses to do it.

What local artists offer is something much more personal. We make our goods by hand, with love and intention, and with completely original designs you can’t get anywhere else. Putting a handmade gift in the hands of someone who will appreciate it is a joy you’ll find addicting! And you’ll be able to tell them all about it, because you’ve put in the time to check out a local artist.