words and vessels by Simon van der Ven Illuminated Lotus Form, porcelain, 5.75”h x 6”w I’ve been sticking pretty close to home, concentrating my energy, allowing myself to wander in the studio. Things are opening up. My friend, Garrett, once told me, “The only real power we have is where we place our focus.” I’m looking more carefully […]

new work by Simon van der Ven Here are a few new pieces from the latest wood fire. (Thank you Jody Johnstone and crew.) Enjoy!

porcelain vessels and text by Siem van der Ven It’s true. I love bread. But an artist does not live on bread alone. Your presence and kindness feed me as well. Announcing two significant exhibitions: The first opens today, Thursday, February 13th at the Unity College Center for the Performing Arts.  The show is called Roots and […]

porcelain vessels and text by Siem van der Ven Our annual Midcoast  Artists and Artisans Open Studio Tour is taking place this weekend, July 26 through 28. Keep an eye out for the bright pink signs. Go to artisanstour.org for a map and more information. Please stop by to visit, browse, ask questions, and add to your collection. […]

porcelain cups and salt cellars by Austin Smith Austin Smith is a studio potter working primarily in slip-cast porcelain. His most recent work incorporates screen-print decals of Penobscot Bay navigational charts made with lead-free ceramic ink. “The imagery is nostalgic for me…[it] reminds me of…summer time in Maine, learning how to read charts with my dad, and driving […]

porcelain vessels by Simon van der Ven No Knead Bread  I understand this recipe came from a NYTimes article. I received it from friend, Janet Redfield. It’s quick, easy (with some forethought and planning), and has brought us great pleasure and satisfaction. I hope it does the same for you. Ingredients: 3 cups bread flour* 1/4 […]

porcelain vessels by Simon van der Ven Two fairly new lidded jar pieces above. The piece below was awarded “Best Thrown and Altered” at the 20th Annual Strictly Functional Pottery National.

stoneware vessels by Simon van der Ven Here are a few pieces I made out in Colorado at the Anderson Ranch Art Center Residency. I made Surfboat because I missed Maine. It’s about 25″ long. Exuvia is about 9.5″ tall. All are stoneware, wood-fired to cone 10.