Ceramics in the City — Dress Up Detroit

So, I sort of struggled with what this post (my "post introduction post", if you will, and you must because I've already written it). I wanted to start to define what I'm going to write about moving forward, but I also want it to be current and interesting and I'll be honest that sometimes these items don't necessarily collide all at once. It's not even that many items, but I'm afraid that I end up being late on most things.

Still, I think that writing about a cool place is always current and hopefully the rest will fall into place (preferably an interesting one!)

A few weeks ago, I was lucky enough to go to the Pewabic House and Garden Show Preview Party Fundraiser in Detroit. I had gone last year as well and was looking forward to an evening of food, music & gorgeous ceramics. I was not disappointed.

Pewabic is awesome for a variety of reasons. Mary Chase Perry Stratton is one of those reasons. She is pretty much a badass lady boss who founded the studio in 1903 with her business partner, Horace James Caulkins. She was an artist and teacher who greatly impacted the art & design movement emphasizing traditional craftsmanship (which also opened up more opportunities for women as artisans & entrepreneurs) around the turn of the century. Her story is very interesting and it's so cool that her legacy continues on in Detroit. The building/studio itself is also recognized as a national historic landmark. You can see Pewabic tiles all over the city of Detroit, the state of Michigan and even across the country. Pewabic pieces are known for an iridescent glaze which makes them easily recognizable in their various locations, adding interest in color, texture and light.

In addition to the various tiles they showcase, their other decorative pieces are also beautiful and unique. I always want to buy one of everything - cute platters for entertaining, mosaics for the wall, number tiles for an address sign, mugs for coffee (& kitchen display) ... you get it. Everything.

While some pieces are a little out of my price range, this year I did bring home a small bowl. I currently use it as a jewelry holder and love the smooth lines and pretty design. I currently have some plans for an address sign, but not sure if/when that will be put together. (Maybe we'll check back on this next year and see if any progress has been made or if the project has been abandoned...)

Finally, the preview event itself is really well done - the tent, lights, food & music create an atmosphere of sophistication and fun. You never feel without. From the second you enter, there's a bustle of people and an immediate energy inside the display tent. This year there were delicious appetizers (the sushi & gazpacho were excellent for a warm summer evening!), cold drinks & sparkling music as the sun set over the city. I always feel like I'm one of the last people to leave because I'm enjoying myself so much.

This event was the reason that I came to know anything about Pewabic in the first place. I am so grateful for the experience because I really do find the history and current mission inspiring. Detroit has always been a city of innovation and creation. I think that this spirit is exemplified here, both then & now. They embrace the changes and styles of art, but hold true to the thought that making something by hand, that craftsmanship, is still important and valuable. And, you can be a part of this by supporting their featured artists, or by actually creating something yourself though a class or workshop offered right at the studio. The Pewabic website also has a ton of information and even an online store if you want to check out some examples of their work.

Anyway, I really hope you have the chance to experience one of my favorite Detroit spots. If not at their Jefferson location, maybe at one of the many places their pieces are a part of!

Let me know if you have any recommendations for places to visit featuring Pewabic tiles or if you have any personal favorite pieces - I'd love to see them!