Image: Courtesy of Tania Goldberg
Tell us a little bit about yourself and your background.
Besides ceramics, I love animals, nature and fantasy books/movies. My first diploma was in nursing, but I always needed more and I found the missing link in clay. I currently am working as a potter full time, and in the process of moving with my husband and three kids to FL so that the weather is more conducive for my work.
What inspired you to become an artist?
My kids wanted things that were not available in stores, so I just learned how to make them. From then on, my fans have been my unwavering support and inspiration.
What is your specialty?
Fine Art Ceramics
How and where do you work?
I have a ceramics studio in my home, and I interact with my fans mostly on Instagram. I had to stop doing art fairs entirely due to high demand, but I still sell some pieces through a few select galleries.
What is the most indispensable item in your studio?
A simple pin.
Where do you take your inspiration? Are you pursuing any themes?
A lot of my inspiration comes from international legends and folklore, as well as nature.
What projects are you currently working on?
Right now, I am just desperately trying to catch up with the demand. Every time I open up custom commissions, I get booked up for months almost immediately. I am looking forward to restocking my Etsy store as soon as I am all caught up, and then submitting a few pieces to galleries and juried shows.
What is your favourite item in your current collection?
I honestly don’t have any favorites. I don’t make copies, every piece is unique and one of a kind, and each one excites me in its own way. I tend to dwell on botanical, fantasy and beach themes the most.
How do you know when a piece is finished?
When I feel that it is worthy of my mark.
Do you do bespoke work?
Yes
What was the first artwork you ever sold?
A floral menorah
Which project have you enjoyed working on the most so far?
It’s hard to say. I usually get excited about each and every piece … I think I get most excited when my customer is excited!
What do you want to achieve with your work and what are your wishes for the future?
I want people to stop and consider the beautiful, the unusual. I hope to provide a brief escape from the everyday stress and anxiety when someone is looking at my work. I also want it to be functional, because I feel that it creates an extra special connection between the piece and the owner.
I always had a special place in my heart for Disney, and would love to be able to make some pieces for their galleries one day. That said, I am perfectly content to simply make people happy… one mug, one mezuzah, one kiddush cup at a time.
Where can we find your work? Just follow me on Instagram, that’s probably the easiest way to see (and claim) my latest work. My Etsy shop link is in my Instagram bio. @taniagoldberg_fineart
Images: Courtesy of Tania Goldberg
