Tell us a little bit about yourself and your background.
Hailing from a long line of successful Jewish artists, I am a self-taught artist who was raised in the Judean Hills of Israel. I studied ceramics in Israel for a number of years under two master artists. I have illustrated two published children’s books and am currently working on a third. I am a mother of two amazing children and wife of my best friend. I work with a variety of mediums, including painting, ceramics, paper-cutting and jewellery design.
What inspired you to become an artist?
I was raised with art all around me, as my grandmother and mother are both accomplished artists. Going into the arts world seemed like a natural fit.
What is your specialty?
I specialize in Judaica in the mediums of ceramics and papercutting. I create unique and colourful works of art, often with a Judaic theme. My art is an exploration of my adventurous life and I enjoy putting my hands to the materials with which I express my feelings. I love taking functional items and turning them into lively works of art for others to enjoy.
How and where do you work?
I recently moved with my family to London, ON where I have a stunning home studio. I work in the evenings and on weekends after my full time job.
What is the most indispensable item in your studio?
I would say that my new Skutt kiln named Mimi is the most used item in my studio. I also couldn’t live without my mini slab roller.
Where do you take your inspiration? Are you pursuing any themes?
I get my inspiration from the beauty I see in the world all around me. I love to explore the themes of Jewish holidays and life events in my work.
What projects are you currently working on?
I am currently working on creating non-Judaica items for my upcoming show at the Banting House National Historic Site of Canada. 50% of the proceeds will be donated to the Canadian Diabetes Association. A charity that I enjoy supporting.
What is your favourite item in your current collection?
My 3 dimensional ceramic pomegranate sculptures, which are decorated with colourful beads, are my favourite items right now.
How do you know when a piece is finished?
Knowing when to stop is one of the hardest parts of creating artwork. I like to take a step back and look at the piece from a different angle/viewpoint to assess if it’s finished.
Do you do bespoke work?
The collaboration process between me and my patrons is central to my work. I love creating personalized pieces and commissioned artwork in all mediums.
What was the first artwork you ever sold?
The first artwork I sold was a set of ceramic pomegranate candle holders at a JCC event in Ottawa, ON.
Which project have you enjoyed working on the most so far?
I would say that my favourite project so far is my ceramic fiddler plaque. I loved it so much that I never put it up for sale and it lives on my fireplace mantle.
What do you want to achieve with your work and what are your wishes for the future?
I would love to be a full time artist. I would like to find a wider customer base so that my work could bring joy to many more people.
Where can we find your work?
I am currently in the process of upgrading my etsy and amazon accounts. They both should be functioning in the coming months. For the time being I sell through Instagram and Facebook by having people contact me if they see an item they are interested in purchasing.
Website: www.purplehamsa.com
Phone: 613-897-6544
© Zahava Goldstein
