Rae Dunn Ceramics - Cultivating the Artisan Spirit

Rae Dunn was born and bred in California. A true creative spirit, she has delved into the worlds of fashion, graphic design and now ceramics. Intrigued by the art of the handmade, each unique piece in Rae Dunn's collection touts an organic form inspired by the imperfections of nature. Her inner artisan embodies the simplicity of her work in her own less-is-more lifestyle. Dunn was recently featured in the Japanese book, San Francisco Kitchens.

Rae Dunn’s  delicate handmade ceramics including plates, tea cups, message stones, and more are based upon the Japanese concept of wabi-sabi -  the beauty of things imperfect. They make the perfect hostess, birthday or Mother’s Day gift for yourself.  See some of Rae Dunn's sale items here for Mother's Day Deals.

Rae recently took some time to tell us more about her creative endeavors and inspirations:

1. Tell us how you transitioned from your background in graphics and fashion into your passion for ceramics.
I started in graphic design when everything was done by hand...does anyone remember "layout and paste up"?  When things started gravitating towards computers, I became uninspired. I love the tactile process, using my hands and computers seemed so cold and had soulless.  I randomly took a class in ceramics and instantly knew it was my calling.

2. Why did you choose to base your approach on the Japanese aesthetic of 'wabi-sabi'?
 I completely believe in the beauty of imperfection.  Who is to say that what the world calls beautiful really is beautiful?  I’ve always been drawn to the wrinkled fabric, the ruddy complexions, the cracks in the sidewalk, the stained paper, etc....  I remember in a ceramics class the teacher unloaded the kiln only to find my teapot was covered with cracks, and sadly having to tell me the news. I jumped with joy at how beautiful it was.

3. What inspires the simplicity and utilitarian values in your designs? I am inspired by simplicity and the belief that less is more. I am very straightforward in my lifestyle and in my work. I’m not fond of embellishment...or over embellishment.  I am not one to have trinkets or to over decorate. I hate clutter.  I like things to have meaning and usefulness. Even in my wardrobe.... I’d much rather have one really nice item rather than 10 not-so-nice items.

4. I notice that you have a fan base in Japan, how did that come about?
 Yes, I do have a little fan base in Japan.  I was mentioned in a Zakka magazine years ago and I suppose the Japanese responded to my aesthetics and that got things rolling.

5. As a seasoned globetrotter what are some of your favorite neighborhoods/stores around the world?
I love traveling the world and seeing how other people live their lives. There are so many amazing places and areas in the world!!  I love Sweden for their clean sense of design.  There is a great store in Stockholm called Pure and Simple and a great ceramic/glass gallery called Blas & Knada.... amazing paper stores in Spain and France...great clothing in Japan.

www.raedunn.com/