Kepamika

I don't recall exactly how old I was when I created my first pysanky (decorated egg) but I was very young, perhaps 9 or 10 years old. The Ukrainian craft of pysanky is passed down from generation to generation, which is how I learned. I work mostly on chicken eggs, duck eggs, and goose eggs. The ancient art of pysanky is alive and well today and practiced by many artists of all backgrounds.

I love the bright colors, animal images, and detailed patterns of pysanky and so I use those designs on my pottery, ceramics, and porcelain. I work in earthenware, stoneware, molded bisque, and porcelain. I hand throw or build many pieces and each is a unique, one of a kind item.

I decorate pottery and stoneware with underglaze paints, fire, and then cover with a clear glossy glaze and fire again. All my ceramics are food safe, dishwasher safe and can be used in the microwave.

I decorate the porcelain items using china paints and various media, such as clove oil or mineral oil. China paint and mineral oil allow me to create very detailed artwork on the porcelain, much like oil painting or pen and ink work. The porcelain is fired in a kiln and the artwork becomes permanent.

I work from my studio in upstate NY and also teach, mentor, exhibit, and demonstrate my craft in various places throughout the year.