There is a movement to buy American, choose local, eat organic, support small businesses, and to give handmade gifts. Of course, none of these things are new. Our grandparents lived by these standards. There were fewer malls or corporate shopping centers and frequenting “Main Street” was normal. It’s normal again: more and more small privately owned shops are popping up around Santa Clarita, most noticeably in hip Old Town Newhall which, over the last few years, has experienced encouraging growth after the city’s revitalization efforts.
The decision to give handmade gifts is on the rise. Whether baked goods or jewelry, hand poured candles or scented soaps, or, for those who like to step it up a notch, the increasingly popular handmade ceramic items. Think about all the functional art you use every day that are ceramic. Who doesn’t love using a favorite mug or vase? They are quite easy to make and the results are stunning. Imagine giving your best friend something you made for her that matches her living room.
Few of us are set up at home to work in ceramics. Fortunately, Santa Clarita will soon have a new state-of-the-art facility for those who crave creating with clay. Ceramic Artist Studio, Inc. (CASI) will have everything an artist could need, from wheels to glazes to kilns.
Many people enjoy “throwing” on the potter’s wheel. Cups, bowls, vases and lidded jars can be made this way. Others prefer “hand building” with slabs or coils of clay. One can decorate the clay by carving, imprinting lace, flowers or stamps, and the glazing possibilities are endless.
Your friends and family would love a piece that you made just for them that is not only beautiful, but functional as well. Handmade gifts warm the hearts of the recipient and the gift giver.
Online enrollment is open now for ceramics classes and artist memberships. For more information visit www.casiceramics.com. “Like” CASI Ceramic Artist Studio on Facebook for updates and special promotions. CASI is located at 22504 6th St., Old Town Newhall, CA 91321 and will open in January 2014.