Today we’d like to introduce you to Gilda Alai.
Hi Gilda, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I started pottery when my children were younger to have a new hobby and creative outlet. I have always been creative doing different types of art. When I found the pottery class taught by Barbara Bailey, I really feel in love with pottery and learned so much from here. I have continued on refining my skills and started teaching pottery to share this beautiful art with others. about 8 years ago I started to sell my pieces. There is something special in picking up your morning cup of coffee in a handmade, one-of-a-kind mug, the coffee taste better somehow and I want everyone to experience that joy in their everyday life. I am originally from Iran where there are beautiful pieces of pottery, patterns, and art. I take inspiration from each of pieces from my time living in Iran, from nature and people around me.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
It has not been a smooth road but nothing is! Some of the struggles started early with figuring out how to create a small business and hope that people love pottery as much as I do. The other struggle with being an artist is to continuously create new unique pieces.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar, what can you tell them about what you do?
I create pottery pieces meant for people to use every day. Whether it’s a coffee mug, planter, or a full set of dinner plates, each piece is meant to bring a unique art to your daily life. Most of my pieces are hand carved with designs inspired by nature and my childhood growing up in Tehran, Iran. Some of my favorite pieces that I have made are people planters which are based on the faces of people I have met and some of my dear grandmothers who I have some of my favorite memories with. I am most proud of the community that has supported me over the years and having customer come back to purchase pottery after buying their first piece.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.koozehpottery.com
- Instagram: @koozehpottery
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/koozehpottery
Image Credits
Koozeh Pottery
