Rach SebellShavit [2004, Ceramics]

Clay has captured Rach SebellShavit’s fascination for over three decades, offering endless possibilities to explore form and function. Their work delves into the interplay between complex and straightforward, balancing vibrant and subdued colors and exploring minimal and intricate shapes within table settings. Inspired by the Japanese concept of wabi-sabi, which centers on understated elegance and the beauty of imperfection, Rach employs stoneware clay and a range of construction methods, including slab construction, wheel throwing, and slip casting, to redefine the form and function of handcrafted dinnerware. Each piece carries the subtle marks of process and intention, blending functional form with a sense of living texture. Their work is designed to be touched, used, and woven into the daily rituals that anchor us.

Durability is central to Rach’s approach. Their pieces are crafted to withstand daily life—dishwashers, microwaves, and the constant rhythm of use—offering an alternative to the fragility of fine china. They aspire for their pottery to integrate seamlessly into everyday moments: morning coffee, family dinners, peaceful afternoon teas, or a late-night bowl of ice cream.

Rach’s proudest moments come when recipients share how their pottery has enriched their daily experiences, bringing new layers of connection and meaning to their routines. Each piece is made with the belief that well-crafted objects invite us to slow down, savor the present, and find beauty in the everyday.