Shine Ceramics by Jules Webster

New Mod Flower Cups

2011-06-29T12:55:00.000-04:00

These are the pattern I make for myself. Can be ordered. $30 for a tumbler, $35 for a handled mug. All pieces are microwave and dishwasher safe.

Poppy Mugs

2011-06-29T12:54:00.000-04:00

A new pattern for 2011. These can be ordered- or are available in limited quantities at each Shine Ceramics exhibition. Mugs are $30-40 depending on size and complexity of the details on each mug. Matching 15" oval serving plates are available for $50 each.

University of Toledo Art on The Mall

2011-06-28T22:41:00.001-04:00

Shine Ceramics is pleased to announce the next exhibition and sale at The University of Toledo's Art on the Mall, Sunday July 31 from 10a-5p.

The event will feature over 100 local & regional artists on the school's Centennial Mall, behind the iconic bell tower on Bancroft St.

The event will feature new serving and decorative pieces in a range of natural earth tones.

These turtle mugs constantly sell out. If you'd like one or a pair, it is best to custom order them. I may be contacted via email.

Toledo Artwalk Thurs, May 19

2011-05-15T13:34:00.000-04:00

Shine Ceramics is pleased to announce our participation in The Art's Commission of Greater Toledo's May ART WALK. We will have items for sale and on display at The Offices of Paul R. Sullivan, Architect. Paul's office is located at 23 S. St. Clair St., Toledo OH 43604. Look for the bright red door, and the Shine Ceramics sign out front. The Art Walk is scheduled from 6-9pm, light refreshments will be served.

Tecumseh MI Art Walk 4.29.11

2011-04-26T18:41:00.001-04:00

The new Spring line from Shine Ceramics will be on display at the Tecumseh, MI Art Walk Friday, April 26th from 6-9pm. Shine will be set up at Bad Hair Day Salon, 109 W. Chicago Blvd, which is the same location as last year. Join us for live music, light snacks, and great new pottery. New mugs and serving platters will be featured.

Image by Tina Gionis Photography, taken at ARTOMATIC 419.

New Spring Line at ARTOMATIC

2011-03-14T16:48:00.003-04:00

Cheers Everyone!

Shine Ceramics will have new work on display and for sale Saturday, April 2, 9, &16 from 11am-11pm at 25 South St. Clair in downtown Toledo.

Held over three Saturdays in April – 2, 9 & 16, 2011 – this FREE event is open to the public and will see nearly 300 local visual, performing, and literary artists transform two under-utilized buildings in Downtown Toledo into the largest non-juried, multi-media arts showcase in Northwest Ohio.

New Mugs, Vases, Nesting Bowl Sets and Platters will be on display and available for purchase.

Great Pottery Making Videos

2011-01-16T15:16:00.000-05:00

I highly recommend watching these videos for anyone interested in learning how to use the potter's wheel. There isn't any narration throughout the process, but they're great!

http://www.youtube.com/user/youdanxxx

Inspiration: Species Co-existing

2011-01-10T18:06:00.001-05:00

The new year means it's time for a portfolio review- a look back at what I created last year to make a new plan and drawings for the pieces Shine Ceramics will produce in 2011.

This is actually pretty tough: balancing what I like to make vs. customer demand, taking into account what glazes and colors I can use (I use ONLY food-safe glazes and pigments), and making sure that whatever the result may be, that it is within an affordable price range for people to enjoy and that I can produce enough to stock galleries can be challenging.

It's time for a new production plan, a new artist statement, and new philosophy of working for 2011. I was a bit stressed about this process until I discovered the above picture on a politics blog (the pic was an outlier for the site). The blog author mentioned that the co-existence of the species was a nice distraction from the political rhetoric that usually occupies his mind. I agree whole hardheartedly, and think the pic is a nice inspiration to set the tone for the type of work I'd like to make this year.

I've always liked to portray species working together in a seemingly closed environment- closed in the sense that the surface area of functional pottery provides a limited 'frame' of reference. On most pieces, the species work independently, yet together, as they perform separate but equally important functions within the food chain. This picture seems to epitomize that idea of separate, yet together, and has spawned some additional thoughts on how I should structure and design the images which grace the surfaces of Shine Ceramics.

Graceful yet Strong and Durable: the dahlia is light, yet strong enough to support itself and the frogs (contents). The lines and forms of Shine Ceramics should appear "light" but the pieces will be built solidly for everyday use.

Surprising and Unexpected yet NOT out of place: the unassuming viewer does not expect to see five tiny frogs within the flower. Their presence is surprising but not alarming.

I'm going to take these ideas into the studio and make some new pieces which reflect these standards. Thanks for your continued interest in my work, and I look forward to sharing with you the new products of my thoughts, experiences, and labor.

All the best for 2011,
Jules*

Showing Off

2011-01-04T22:28:00.000-05:00

A photo from the Holiday Sale at Wesley's in December. The large turtle plate in the background is currently in the inventory of Art on Central, 5640 W.Central Ave, Toledo 43617.

Blue and Chocolate Mugs

2011-01-03T20:28:00.006-05:00

Light Blue and Chocolate Brown mugs are available at The Artisan's Bench in Brighton, MI, or can be ordered for $24 each.

To order these microwave and dishwasher safe mugs, or other items on the Shine Ceramics webpage, email Jules at julieshinewebster@gmail.com. Most orders take 4 weeks. Rush orders available for Wedding, Birthday, and Holiday gifts. Please inquire.

New Bowls and Vases

2011-01-02T17:13:00.005-05:00

Salad Bowl, $20-30

Vases, Size Variable, $40-120

Cup, w/o handle, $15, Mug $24

Small Vase, $20-25

I'm working on glaze color schemes that are more adaptable into most home decor, as well as bright, new, colorful patterns that will debut this spring.

Bowls, vases, cups (foms) and color tones in these schemes are widely varied, and are priced from $15-120. These will be available at Petit Fours and The Toledo Museum of Art (in Toledo) and the Artisan's Bench (Brighton, MI) in early February.

Aquatic Vases back in January

2011-01-02T09:39:00.000-05:00

After a brief hiatus, aquatic themed work will be making a more regular appearance again at Shine Ceramics. It seems that as soon as I switch patterns, the demand for the former pattern goes up!

Look for new work at Petit Fours, Toledo Museum of Art's Collector's Corner, and Downtown Latte.

Last Shine Sale of the Season!

2010-11-30T17:29:00.002-05:00

This Saturday, Dec. 4th from 7:30-11pm at Wesleys, 1201 Adams St., Toledo, 43604

It's your last chance to grab some Shine for the holidays! Featured items include new Turtle mugs, Gloom mugs and cups, and the ever popular lily pad serving tray with handles. Over 70 other one of a kind, hand painted works will be on view.

I have a limited number of the most popular items, FU Cups, leaf plates, white flower bowls, Toledo Mugs, etc. If you want any of these, come early. I will sell out!

Where's Your Shine?

2010-11-03T10:20:00.005-04:00

Upcoming Events
Friday Nov. 19th, 6-10p & Saturday the 20th, 12-4.
Holiday Art Bazaar at 23 St. Clair St.
Shine Ceramics will be at the offices of Paul Sullivan.
More than 40 local artists will have work on display on the block between Washington and Lafayette.

Sunday, Nov. 21st, 11-4- Holiday Art Sale at Integration Yoga Studio, 4366 W. Bancroft St, Toledo. Jenny Gorkowski Jewelry, Tara Hubbard Handbags, Kelly Savino Ceramics, and work by Stacy Jurich will also be featured.

Shine at Petit Fours

2010-10-31T22:17:00.003-04:00

Bird Cage Plate at Petit Fours, located at 27 Broadway in downtown Toledo, in the back of the Historic Oliver House Building. Petit Fours is a fabulous cafe and bakery, open for breakfast and lunch, 7a-3p Monday- Saturday. There about one dozen pieces on view at their location.

Mugs, $20 each.

Large Lotus Flower Bowl. This one has a more muted, modern color scheme than most bowls in this series. It's my favorite.

Turtle Mug on Lily Pad Saucer, small water glass, and Lotus Storage Jar.

Petit Fours is adorable, inside and out. Their salads and sweets are delicious. They also have orange coffee that is a local favorite.

Yellow Lily Pond Plate

2010-10-31T21:52:00.002-04:00

At The Toledo Museum of Art's Collectors Corner, 11x11", $50.

New Turtle Plates

2010-10-31T21:47:00.000-04:00

The newer variations of Turtle Plates I'm making have more distinctly shaped edges than the previous square and rectangular shaped platters. This one is available for $120 at The Artisan's Bench in Brighton, MI . I'll also donate a piece similar to this one to the Independent Advocates Fundraiser at The Secor Building on November 20th.

Mugs!

2010-10-31T21:32:00.001-04:00

Mugs at Downtown Latte, $20-35 each depending on pattern. Microwave and Dishwasher safe.

Shine Pendants

2010-10-31T21:24:00.000-04:00

Shine Ceramics pendants are back! Pendants are available in assorted sizes, colors, and patterns at Downtown Latte, Art on Central, Toledo Museum of Art, Space 237 and at all Shine sales. $10-20 each, including an 18" cord with clasp.

Chip and Dip Server

2010-10-31T21:16:00.000-04:00

Lily Pad Plate with handles, and flower bowl. Plates available in 9 and 11", with and without handles, in Matte and Glossy Green. Available at Art on Central, Space 237, Petit Fours, and at all Shine Ceramics Holiday Sales, while supplies last. $30-50 per set. Bowls are microwave, oven, and dishwasher safe.

Shine Ceramics at The Artisan's Bench in Brighton, MI

2010-10-24T18:55:00.002-04:00

Shine is pleased to announce a new venue where you can view and purchase our wares! Shine Ceramics is now available at The Artisan's Bench (formerly Heirloom Rugs) in Brighton, Michigan. The Artisan's Bench has pottery, hand made furniture and area rugs, and crafted wood accessories for the kitchen and home at reasonable prices.

For more information, call The Artisan's Bench at 810.227.4751 or visit the store at 307 W. Main St, Brighton, MI 48116.

Coy Fish Tureen

2010-10-18T02:41:00.000-04:00

Detail of the top of a new Coy Fish Tureen. This piece is currently for sale at The Artisan's Bench, in Brighton, MI. $300.

"Fear and Freedom" Birdcage Jar

2010-10-18T02:35:00.000-04:00

Lotus Pitcher and Tumblers

2010-10-18T02:29:00.000-04:00

Everybody's Favorites are Back!

2010-10-06T11:20:00.001-04:00

I'm making a limited number of these pieces for The APPPLUMPKIN FESTIVAL in Tecumseh, Mi, this weekend. If you have any patterns or style of work which I don't produce, but you'd like again, email me, and I can make custom pieces to match what you already have. Some exceptions apply, as I no longer have access to gas-fired kilns.

The Appleumpkin Festival is in Downtown Tecumseh, MI from 9-6 Saturday, Oct 9th and 10-5 Sunday, Oct. 10th. I'll be at Booth # 722, and The Black Door Gallery, new in Tecumseh, will also have a limited number of my pieces on display.

More Lily Flower-themed Work

2010-09-25T01:14:00.000-04:00

Lotus Casserole Dish/ Storage Jar, Cream and Sugar Set with hand-made clay spoon, and matching Appetizer Plate Set. All items may be ordered by contacting the artist via e-mail.

Plates $30 each, Cream and Sugar with Tray $200, Casserole Dish/ Storage Jar $150.

Lily Pad Trivets

2010-09-25T01:05:00.001-04:00

Available in a variety of shapes and sizes, $5-10 each. Perfect for use as appetizer/ dessert plates, soap dishes, spoon rests, as a jewelry holder on a bed-side table, or for holding dish-washing scrubbies near the kitchen sink.

Available at Downtown Latte, Petit Fours, Art on Central, and by e-mail & exhibitions hosted by the Artist.

Toledo City Paper & Free Press Publish Articles on Shine

2010-09-17T22:43:00.000-04:00

What an amazing week it has been! On Tuesday, the 14th, the Toledo City Council passed a public Resolution honoring the Arts Commission of Greater Toledo's summer ART WALKS, and the efforts of collaborative partners Shine Ceramics & Shine 419, as well as EPIC Toledo's Cultural Arts Action Committee.

Members of City Council were given "Chicago Doesn't Need YOU!" T-shirts designed by Shine 419 (purchased by Councilmen Craig, Waniewski, and Ashford), and a letter I drafted was read and recorded into the public record.

Link to the article in the Toledo City Paper, published 9.15.10:
http://www.toledocitypaper.com/index.php?/The-City/City-Side/shine419-shines-for-toledo-art.html

Link to the article in the Toledo Free Press, published 9.17.10:
http://www.toledofreepress.com/2010/09/16/council-recognizes-acgt/

New Coy Fish Plate

2010-09-16T01:03:00.002-04:00

The more of these Coy themed plates and vases I make, the bolder the colors and lines become.

Plates in this series range from 8x11" to 17x17". The pieces retail from $30-300, as shown (17x17") $120.

Lotus Bowls and Lily Pad Plate Sets

2010-09-16T00:54:00.001-04:00

Shine Ceramics has recently begun to produce mix-and-match Serving Plates and Bowls in the Lotus Flower/ Lily Pad theme; the pieces are guaranteed to suit a range of interior decor.

Plates range in size from 5x5" to 14x16", and are available in several shades of rich matte or multi-color gloss greens. Lotus Flower Bowls range in size from 3x3x3" to 12x12x12" and are available in solid satin matte white or with painted Lotus Flower motifs and Honey Bee decoration.

Lily Pad Plates are available from $5-45, Lotus Bowls are available from $5-60. Pieces are priced individually to allow the collector to choose a combination to suit his/ her taste. All pieces of Shine Ceramics pottery are food safe. These pieces are excellent for serving appetizers when entertaining guests, or for everyday use when serving meals at home.

Shine In Perrysburg for Harrison Rally Days

2010-09-16T00:35:00.000-04:00

Above Photos: Side and Top view of A Box for Letters in the Swan motif, which is a personal favorite of the artist.

Shine Ceramics will be in Perrysburg this weekend for The Harrison Rally Days Art Festival, from 9:30am-4:30pm. The festival has two sections, Arts and Artisans, and Fine Arts. Shine will be located in the Fine Arts section, booth # 236.

Shine in Perrrysburg this Friday, 9.3

2010-09-01T17:23:00.001-04:00

Shine Ceramics is pleased to announce we'll be in Perrysburg on Sept. 3rd for "First Fridays." The event runs from 5:30-9pm, and is located in Historic Downtown Perrysburg. All the businesses stay open late, and local artists have work on display throughout the streets and sidewalks.

Shine Plates, Platters, Mugs and Pendants will be featured.

Shine Ceramics at The Flying Rhino- 8.26.10

2010-08-24T10:25:00.000-04:00

Shine Ceramics is pleased to announce an Exhibition of Coffee Mugs! This event is a part of the Art's Commission of Greater Toledo's Thursday Art Walk Series. Thurs., Aug. 26th from 6-9pm.

Every time I have a sale or show, all the mugs sell out. In honor of this popular item, and in honor of my favorite beverage, we bring you a Mug show at one of Shine's favorite LOCAL retailers, The Flying Rhino Coffee.

I've made 44 new cups and mugs in the past ten days for this show. Get yours while the gettin's good. Mugs range from $20-40, depending on the amount of painting and detail in the design. All mugs are microwave and dishwasher friendly. Shine Ceramics accepts credit cards for purchases.

The Flying Rhino Coffee is located at 436 13th St in Downtown Toledo, between Jackson and Adams, near Madhouse graphic design/ ad agency.

More info on The Flying Rhino is available at www.flyingrhinocoffee.com.

Lotus Mugs

2010-08-18T08:40:00.002-04:00

Lotus Mugs from Shine Ceramics. These mugs are microwave and dishwasher safe, guranteed to make your coffee taste better! There is also a dragonfly on the side of this one that's not shown. The underside of the foot also has a little bee on it.

Monroe Art (and Jazz) Festival

2010-08-13T11:06:00.001-04:00

Shine Ceramics will be exhibiting at the Monroe Fine Art Fair (adjacent to the Monroe Jazz Festival) this weekend. Saturday 10-7, Sunday 12-6. The festival is located in downtown Monroe, near the intersection of East 1st St, and Washington.

New Mugs and Shine Pendant Necklaces will be featured!

I"ll Eat You For Breakfast!

2010-08-11T15:58:00.001-04:00

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I'll Eat You for Breakfast Cup, $20 without handle, $26 with handle. Gloom Cups are available at Space 237 and at Downtown Latte. You can also email the artist julieshinewebster@gmail.com with special requests and orders.

Gloom @ The Ottawa Tavern

2010-08-11T15:47:00.000-04:00

The Gloom Ceramics show was a smashing success! Word on the street is that I may have made more than the bar last Saturday night.

Many thanks to all those who came to view the new work, and congratulations to all those who invested in the Gloom series. The quality and selection of colors and styles continues to improve show after show after show....

What is GLOOM Ceramics?

2010-08-03T14:54:00.001-04:00

TOLEDO, OH.- From the U.S city with the second highest number of overcast days per year comes GLOOM! GLOOM Ceramics are a limited edition of rude and unapologetic mugs & dishware employing humor and directness to express a range of jaded and impolite sentiments. Want to tell someone to, "get bent?" Don't tarnish your squaky clean reputation! GLOOM Cups & Mugs will do the work for you!

New slogans include; Buzz Off Jive Turkey!, Everyone Else is Boring, I'll Eat You For Breakfast, and Get out of my FACE! The original GLOOM Cups, the Bird Flipping the Bird, and the Shit, Damn, Get off your ASS and Jam! will also be available in limited quantity.

More GLOOM!

2010-08-03T09:56:00.004-04:00

"Bird Flipping the Bird" Cup, $20. The entire GLOOM line will be available this Saturday at The Ottawa Tavern from 7-11pm.

"Gloom" Cups at Downtown Latte

2010-07-20T17:31:00.001-04:00

Gloom Mugs and Tumblers are now available at Downtown Latte.

Full-color, Hand-painted "Bird Flipping the Bird" Mug, $40.

Black and White "I'll eat you for Breakfast" Spider Tumbler, $20.

New work at Art on Central

2010-07-16T00:38:00.002-04:00

Small Lily Pad Plates, Trivets, and Coasters, $10-16 each. Large Lily Pad Plate, $30. I just dropped off these new items today! I will also feature more plates from this series at UT's Art on the Mall next Sunday from 10-5.

More photos available at the link to Gallery Inventories on the upper left of the Shine Home Page.

Summer Show Dates

2010-07-13T08:53:00.002-04:00

Thurs., July 22- Downtown ARTWALK- I'll be at 23 St. Clair @ Paul Sullivan's Office 6-9- New vases and platters on display.

Sun., July 25, University of Toledo's ART ON THE MALL- 10am-5pm at UT's campus.

Sat., Aug. 7th, SHINE CERAMICS and RED POPPY at the Ottawa Tavern. It's a Meg & Jules' SUMMER ART PARTY. 7-11pm. Gloom mugs and other best sellers on display. Items from Red Poppy include homemade, organic cosmetics, lotions, body butters, hand made pillows and totes.

Current Exhibition at Space 237

2010-07-09T01:57:00.003-04:00

Soup Tureen and Dinner Plate from the Lotus Dinnerware set on view at Space 237 until August 20th. A full view of the show is available by clicking a link on the bottom left side of this page under the heading "Summer 2010 Exhibition at 237."

Shine Ceramics now available at Downtown Latte

2010-07-09T00:48:00.002-04:00

Turtle mugs, Lotus Bowls, Turtle Platter, and "Viva Toledo" T-shirts now available at Downtown Latte, located at 44 St. Clair in Downtown Toledo.

Great Coffee, Food and Atmosphere, not to mention the best staff in town.

OPEN for Business Mon-Fri 7am-5pm, Sat 9am-3pm.
More info at http://downtownlatte.com/default.asp

This plate is currently on view at Downtown Latte. "Gloom" mugs will be available in the coffee shop within a week.

Fish Plates and Vases

2010-07-09T00:27:00.005-04:00

Vases and Plates in this series available in many colors and sizes, Prices range from $40-180.

Some of these items are available at Space 237, or can be ordered by calling the artist at the gallery, 419.255.5117

Upcoming Exhibitions

2010-07-09T00:09:00.004-04:00

Mugs $30-40, Turtle Plates $40-150

New Turtle Mugs, Platters, Lotus Bowls, and Gloom Mugs will be featured at two events in July.

The Arts Commission of Greater Toledo sponsors a monthly ART Walk in Downtown. The next ART WALK is Thursday, July 22 from 6-9pm. Shine Ceramics will be on display at the office of Paul Sullivan on St. Clair near Washinton, across from Homeslice Pizza.

The University of Toledo ART on the Mall is Sunday, July 25 from 10am-5pm. This is one of my favorite shows of the year, and I'll have about 80 new works on display.

Lotus Bowls

2010-06-07T21:39:00.009-04:00

Lotus Bowls- Sizes, Colors, and Shape slightly vairable. $20-125. All Food-Safe, microwave and dishwasher friendly. Custom colors and sets available, Large bowls in this pattern have been very popular as wedding gifts this summer.

Small Lotus bowls are on view as a part of an exhibition of dinnerware on view at Space 237 until August 20th. More info at http://www.space237.com/.

Success in the OWE!

2010-06-07T21:32:00.000-04:00

Thank you to all who came to support Shine Ceramics at the Art Fair of The Old West End Festival. I'm pleased to announce that I received Second Place at the show. The beautiful floral arrangement pictured in the front right was part of the award from The Old West End Association. Flowers by David Swesey Florist, 433 W. Dussel Drive in Maumee, OH.

More dishes for OWE fest next weekend...

2010-05-29T10:12:00.001-04:00

Old West End Festival- June 5-6

2010-05-29T10:09:00.000-04:00

Hello, hello, Claymates! Shine Ceramics will be open for business, selling pots at The Old West End Festival next weekend, June 5-6, from 10-5. My booth will be in the fine art section of the festival, which is located in the gardens of The Toledo Museum of Art's Glass Pavilion. New work by Shine, and lots of mugs and cups by Gloom as well. These plates are $40 each because of the amount of time spent painting- about 2 hours each. I've simplified many of my patterns to be more affordable and accessable to younger collectors.

Yesterday & Today- on view until 6.5.10

2010-05-24T10:35:00.000-04:00

Swan Family Serving Plate, one of many on view as a part of the Spring Exhibition at Space 237 that runs until early June. Gallery hours Tues- Fri, 11-5, Sat 12-4. More info at www.space237.com.

Tecumpseh, MI ART Walk, Vol. 2

2010-05-06T14:57:00.000-04:00

Tecumseh, MI ART Walk

2010-04-24T10:52:00.001-04:00

Shine Ceramics is pleased to announce we will be participating in the Tecumseh, MI ARTwalk Friday, April 30th from 6-9pm. Each business in the community is sponsoring an artist. I will be sponsored by Bad Hair Day Salon and Spa. The salon is absolutely beautiful place, with wood floors, restored brick walls, high ceilings, and amazing lighting.

For those of you familiar with the Wesley's show format, this will be very much the same. The hair stylists at the salon are removing their products from their stations and I'll set up a large display (70-100 pieces of work) in the store front.

More info on the spa is available at: http://www.badhairdaysalonandspa.com/.

Any questions? Call or email me! xoxoxo to all of you!

ACGT Meet & Greet Bus Loop

2010-04-15T09:02:00.000-04:00

Hello, hello, art fans! Shine Ceramics is pleased to announce the opening of a new exhibition of work at Space 237 this Friday, April 16 from 7-10. Live Demo with the artist from 8-9pm on the Fourth floor of the gallery.

The gallery reception is part of a larger network of galleries open for public viewing; a free bus (sponsored by the Arts Commission of Greater Toledo) will be available to shuttle individuals from gallery to gallery. NOTE: there is no way that one will be able to view all the exhibition spaces in one evening. Please pick the events you most want to attend and plan accordingly. More info at acgt.org

"GLOOM" Ceramics

2010-03-27T20:21:00.001-04:00

Last fall at Penland, I started producing a new line of work that marked a departure from the usual bright and sunny themes of Shine Ceramics. The pieces are referred sold under the name "Gloom Ceramics," and contain motifs not appropirate for Shine, such as this mug of a bird spinning records. The bottom of the cup is inscribed with the words, "get off your ass and jam." Other popular motifs include birds flipping the bird.

"Gloom" Ceramics will make their official debut at the Wesley's show April 10th.

Shine Ceramics at TMA's Collector's Corner

2010-03-27T20:13:00.001-04:00

As mentioned in previous posts, Shine Ceramics are now available again at the Collector's Corner at The Toledo Museum of Art. Pieces range from $30-200. The Swan patern pictured above is the newest, and most challenging of any pattern produced by Shine to date.

Caught on Camera

2010-03-26T00:31:00.000-04:00

Parties bring out the artist in everyone
Article published March 25, 2010 in the Toledo Blade Peach Section, Around Town, p. 20 & 21.

There is a photo of me at work taken by Grand Lubell photography and brief write up of two art events I was involved with recently in downtown: the TMA's 2445 Art of Funk and the ACGT's Mix Up. Grab a copy on the news stand if you still can.

google analytics

2010-03-25T09:05:00.001-04:00

For those who have never heard of google analytics, I suggest you check it out (http://www.google.com/analytics/ )This is a program I installed on this site about a year ago, and you can use it on any website, that tracks new versus repeat traffic to any published URL, such as http://www.shineceramics.com/. It gives detailed information about how the public uses a site, and specific information such as WHERE people are located who access your website (it depicts a map of the world, broken down by country, state, and city, specifically) , how long that person spends on the site, and how often that specific IP address is accessed, and then how often that 'visitor' comes back to view content on that site, as well as how many "pages" are viewed with each visit. The data can then be analyzed with a click of a button by day, month, and year. Its very interesting.

Platters for Space 237 Spring Show

2010-03-24T11:26:00.000-04:00

17x17" Unglazed Platter- the colors will "pop" and be more intense with a clear glaze coating.

This is one of three large serving platters that will be featured at Space 237 for their Spring Show titled, "Yesterday and Today." The show opens Friday, April 16 from 7-10. Several galleries will be open that night, and the Arts Comission of Greater Toledo will provide a bus loop from gallery to gallery.

More Pots for Wesleys!

2010-03-24T11:19:00.001-04:00

Decorative Jars with a Spring inspried lotus and dragon fly theme. These pieces have been carved and are drying for bisque firing.

Making Pots for Wesleys!

2010-03-24T11:11:00.000-04:00

Hello, Hello. I'm underglaze painting appetizer plates for the upcoming Wesley's show Saturday, April 10 from 7-11 (really 2 am). This show will feature a new "Spring Line" of patterns, and the return of solid-color serving bowl sets, similar to those made by Shine Ceramics in 2007-2008. I will keep posting photos of work as the show draws near.

This swan pattern pictured above is available exclusively through The Toledo Museum of Art Collector's Corner, and through Shine Ceramics directly. The two on the top and bottom left are painted and glaze fired, all the others are still works in progress. Each plate takes 2-3 hours to paint.

Love Letter Boxes, etc.

2010-03-13T19:16:00.000-05:00

Currently working on painting some Love Letter Boxes and Plates with underglazes- this side is about half done. The handle for the lid is a large clay feather that repeats the linear motifs of the Swans.

Note the Sugar Jar to the left. I'm hoping to make more boxes and sugar jars in the upcoming months.

Success! 2445 @ TMA

2010-03-12T10:01:00.002-05:00

The 2445 Event: The Art of Funk last night was amazing. The plate I'm painting here in the photo was auctioned off to a lucky bidder for $300. This piece represents the newest Shine Ceramics pattern, prominently featuring lilly pads, turtles, coy fish, swans, and dragon flies set against a black background. Plates and coffee mugs from this series (shown in the photo on the table) are available at The Toledo Museum of Art's Collectors Corner.

Next Thursday! The Art of Funk

2010-03-04T20:30:00.005-05:00

Spring Shows and Events

2010-02-25T11:36:00.004-05:00

Shine Ceramics is pleased to announce a few upcoming events:

New Mugs and Serving Plates available at Space 237 March 1st.

Live Demonstration at The Toledo Museum of Art, March 11th. I'm participating in The Art of Funk, part of the 2445 Series held in The Glass Pavillion. $30 ticket includes live art making demos- painting, glass-blowing, and ceramic arts, as well as an eclectic mix of ten local musicians, edible delights by cheff Erika Rapp and beverages from Heidelberg Distributing.

The next show and sale will be Saturday, April 10th at Wesleys, 1201 Adams St. in Downtown Toledo. 7-11 pm, with entertainment by The Reese Dailey Band starting at 10.

New serving platters and vases will be unveiled at Space 237's Spring Show, held Friday, April 16th from 7-10pm.

Summer Dinnerware Collection to be shown at Space 237's Summer Show. A full table will be set in the gallery with Shine Ceramics Lotus Flower ware. The exhbition will be comprised of an entire dinnerware set, complete with serving plates and chargers, lidded casserole dishes, and a full line of accessories.

I'm also in the process of lining up a series of summer shows, in gallery spaces and weekend art fairs. Check back within a month, and check your mailbox. Announcements will be sent out soon!

Urban Forest Project at Space 237

2010-01-27T08:15:00.001-05:00

This video details the current exhibition at Space 237, the current studio home of Shine Ceramics. Stop by to see the show, then come downstairs to check out my new work! Visitors always welcome.

Six Week Classes and Open Studio at Space 237

2010-01-18T09:04:00.001-05:00

Hello Claymates! I'm very excited to announce that I'll be teaching six week ceramic workshops at Space 237. Classes begin Feb. 1st. Day and Evening workshops are available. The day class meets Monday/ Wednesday from 11-1:30, the evening class meets Tuesday/ Thursday from 6:30-9. The first workshop will focus on wheel throwing low forms for use in functional ware or sculpture, handbuilding techniques, slip casting, how to make and use bisque molds, as well as surface decoration and glazing. We will also discuss in depth how to develop a unique, signature style for our individual work based upon our personalites, likes, and lifestyles. The class is $250, plus $15 materials fee, includes beginning tools, clay, glazes, and kiln firings. Beginning to advanced students welcome.

We will use ^6 oxidation glazes, as well as many commercially available glazes and underglazes in the studio. The class also includes 40 hours of open studio time for enrolled participants.

If you're interested in clay, but work independently or desire private lessons, Space 237 can accomodate your needs. Monthly studio rental is available to independent ceramic artists at the rate of $30 monthly. Studio rental includes access to all equipment- wheels, slab roller, extruder, slip casting equipment and molds, and 40 hours a week of open studio access. Clay must be purchased from the studio, $10 for 10lbs of stoneware, kiln firings (enormous Skutt kiln) $50 for a whole kiln, $25 for a half kiln. For the average potter/ sculptor, I would estimate monthly fees (including rent) to be around $60-90 monthly. E-mail me or call Space 237 to register for classes or apply for open studio access.

Private lessons/ consultations with a professional ceramic guru are available for established artists at the rate of $15 hour, beginning students, $20 hour.

Space 237 Online Store

2010-01-03T21:06:00.000-05:00

Space 237 has an online store which periodically updates Shine Ceramics available within their small gallery, Intrinsic Space. If you can't make it downtown, you can purchase pottery on-line from this link

http://www.space237.com/pages/ceramic.html

Happy New Year! Shine Ceramics News

2010-01-03T20:57:00.000-05:00

I'm very excited for the possibilities that are ahead this year. Thank you for making this past month the most successful Holiday Season on record. I appreciate that many people chose to buy gifts from a local artist instead of shopping online or at retail chain stores. I am truly blessed to have so many supporters of my work. Thank you to all who comissioned Christmas gifts, and I can't wait to begin an ambitious schedule production in January for recent orders. I will be making two full dinner sets with accent decorative pieces for both their respective homes. Life is good.

Adult Ceramic classes should begin at Space 237 in early February. I am very happy to report that we should have a finalized sylabus soon, which will be posted here, as well as on the Space 237 Website.

Happy New Year!
Best wishes for health and happiness.
Jules*

Jellyfish Decanter

2009-12-29T21:44:00.002-05:00

Porcelain with Slips and Underglaze. 5 x 8 x 13" tall. 2009.

Nesting Bowl

2009-12-29T21:22:00.000-05:00

11x11x4" high. Porcelain with slips and underglaze. 2009. Private Collection.

Bourbon Decanters

2009-12-22T21:33:00.003-05:00

A bourbon decanter based upon the theme of "David vs. Goliath." $120, contact me at julieshinewebster@gmail.com for sales inquiries.

Wood Fired Pitchers

2009-12-14T22:13:00.000-05:00

Aquatic Themed Beverage Pitchers. $100 each. The piece on the Left is sold.

More Wood Fired Pots

2009-12-14T22:11:00.000-05:00

Mugs $35-40 each, and Tumbler Set with Tray $100, Multiple glazes and Slips, with Underglaze accents.

Sorry, all the mugs in this glaze are sold out.

Oval Platters

2009-12-14T22:05:00.001-05:00

Some new, some older. $40-65 each, depending on the imagery.
None of these are currently available, but orders can be placed via e-mail. I can customize the colors and pattern to suit any home.

Penland Wood Kiln

2009-12-14T22:00:00.000-05:00

I've been talking about the wood kilns at Penland School of Crafts and wanted to post pictures. The first photo shows bricks used as shelf supports stacked to dry after the ends were dipped in a coating to protect them bricks from sticking to the shelves during the firing.

Christa Assad Pots

2009-12-09T11:50:00.001-05:00

The above photo was taken during my workshop with Christa Assad at Greenwich House Pottery last July. I found it saved in my email and wanted to post it on the blog. The unfinished pots in the foreground were made by Christa as examples during the workshop. Check out the "Iron" teapot on the far left. That is one of her signature items, and are included in many private collections and museums. I'm working on the right, in the orange shirt. More about Christa can be found at christaassad.com.

Wood Fired Pots from The Penland School of Crafts

2009-12-09T10:31:00.005-05:00

Lidded Casserole Dish and Octopus Serving Platter, both one of a kind pots made during my two month hiatus to The Penland School of Crafts in North Carolina. I studied with potter Tara Wilson, who is well known in the American Ceramics community for her wood-fired pottery. The glazed surfaces on these pots are unique, and affected by the path of the flame as it moves through the kiln during the firing. Because I do not have access to wood fired kilns here at home, these pieces are truly unique and can not be replicated. Both will be available for purchase at the Holiday Sale this Sunday at Bayberry Creek, 2-8pm.

Lidded Casserole Dish, $80. Octopus Platter, $150.
Both are available.
Click on the photos to enlarge the picture.

Holiday Sale II

2009-12-09T10:19:00.002-05:00

The Second Shine Ceramics Holiday Sale will be held this Sunday, Dec. 13th, from 2-8pm at The Bayberry Creek Clubhouse on Coy Rd, in Oregon. The Bayberry Creek Condos and Clubhouse are located between Starr and Navarre Ave.

Great Holiday Gifts to give and recieve will be available from $5-125. Support Local Art. Buy Holiday Gifts with Heart.

mugs for the holiday sale

2009-12-04T21:41:00.001-05:00

Porcelain coffee cups, $30-35 each. Microwave and dishwasher safe.

Painting New Pots

2009-11-30T18:45:00.001-05:00

I'm currently working on painting pots, and will be all day today, tomorrow, and Wednesday. This is one of 16 mugs in the Holiday Exhibition. The colors will be much more vivid after they are coated with a clear glaze and fired.

Turtles, Birds & Bees, Little Sailing Ships, Coy Fish, Lilly Pads, and Deer are all new themes featured on pots for this show.

Shine Ceramics Mug, Approx 16oz.

Shine Ceramics at Space 237

2009-11-27T13:14:00.002-05:00

If you can't make it to the Holiday Sale next Saturday, you can pick up a little Shine anytime at Space 237 Gallery. Located in downtown Toledo, Space 237 has 3 floors of beautiful exhibition galleries and a fabulous "Clayspace" ceramics studio in the basement. They also have the friendliest staff you'll find anywhere.

This gallery currently featuring one-of-a-kind Aquatic themed vases and Nesting Plates, Cloud Cups, and the Shine Ceramics Signature Series flower pattern in Red (Vases, Plates, and Bowls available). $20-360.

Space 237 is located at 237 Michigan, near the Main Lucas Co. Library. Hours- Tues-Fri 11-5, Sat 12-4.

little ships

2009-11-25T22:34:00.004-05:00

I always try to keep the images on my pots fresh and interesting. Recently, I've taken a liking to drawing and painting little ships on my pieces. I appreciate rich symbolic potential of the ship and the fluidity of water and aquatic life. I'm very pleased to present a new line of plates, mugs, and vases with this theme.

The vase pictured at the left is available at Space 237. Mugs and Plates with this pattern will be featured at the Holiday Sale.

Lake Erie Vase, 2009. Approx 14" high. $220. Mugs and plates with this theme start at $20.

oooh, pretty!

2009-11-25T21:54:00.002-05:00

New Pendants from Shine Ceramics. Available in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. $10-20 each at the Holiday Sale.

Shine Ceramics Holiday Sale!

2009-11-22T14:06:00.002-05:00

Cheers! A Set of Shot Glasses

2009-09-25T20:51:00.000-04:00

These shot glasses with a serving tray are one of my new favorite items. Each set costs $80 and the sayings can be customized. The shot cups each have a pleasant message contained within a "speak bubble" that I'd like to hear when drinking with friends, such as, "hello, good to see you, cheers, it's a pleasure." And the tray, you ask, what does that say? The bottom of the tray says, "cheers to our years."

Cheers! A Bird Flask

2009-09-25T20:45:00.002-04:00

This is one of my favorite flasks to date. I like it so much I probably won't sell it. It holds more than you may think, about 10-12 shots. Enough to share! Cheers!

Shine Ceramics Flasks come in a variety of shapes and sizes, prices range from $20- 120.

Thank You, Sylvania

2009-09-15T18:07:00.000-04:00

Thanks for all those who came out to Lourdes College to support Shine Ceramics. It was a perfect day for an outdoor show and the campus served as a nice venue. Congratulations to my friends Kelly Lever and Adam Russel of Honest Works who won Second Place at the event. Links to their websites can be found to the right of the Shine Ceramics blog layout.

Photo Above: My favorite item in the show, a plate titled Charity. Those who have give to those in need. The back of the plate reinforces the message, "We're all in the same basket."

Conversation Cups

2009-09-05T01:25:00.001-04:00

These are my favorite thing I currently make, and I call them "Conversation Cups." They all say something pleasant to the person holding them. Each cup is decorated on three sides with happy, colorful hand painted nature scenes and flowing floral motifs. Cups range in size, holding from 10-20 ounces of liquid. $30-50 each.

NEW! Custom Orders Available

2009-09-05T01:13:00.002-04:00

Oh yes, the time has finally arrived. The Shine Ceramics Signature Series is now available for order. We are currently accepting orders for large platters, plates, and bowls. These are the most common items people pick out for others as gifts, so it seems like the logical place to start. Here is a small sample of works for purchase, with detailed descriptions and more styles available. Please email me if you have questions or would like to place invest in a little piece of Shine for yourself or a friend. Shine Ceramics accepts cash, checks and credit cards.

Top: Platter- available in Square or Round. Approx. 14"x15" Light Red, Purple, or Blue Flower, Humming Birds optional. $60-90 each. Custom Message available.

Middle: Large Plate- available in Square or Round. Approx. 10"x10" Light Red, Purple, or Blue Flower, Humming Birds optional. $35-50 each. Custom Message available.

Bottom: Bowls- available in Small, Medium, Large- Sizes variable. Sole as Individual or in Nesting Sets. Light Red, Purple, or Blue Flower. $25-60 each for individuals. Sets of 3 start at $95. Custom colors and patterns available.

Success!

2009-08-31T20:05:00.005-04:00

The Wesley's Show went amazingly well! Thank you for all your support and I appreciate all those who invested in my new work. I've never been more proud of the pottery that I've produced and it was a pleasure to share it with you all. I'm already back in the studio trying to produce more for the show two weekends from now at Lourdes College on Sunday, Sept. 13. It will be my last show before I move to Penland for two months.

Above: Set of four appetizer plates, each about 5"x5" each. Available for order, $50 set, custom colors available. These were one of the big sellers of the evening. If you'd like a set for a holiday gift, I will start accepting orders in a few days. Email me at julieshinewebster@gmail.com.

defend what you hold dear

2009-08-25T20:22:00.006-04:00

the many phases of shine ceramics

2009-08-25T20:14:00.003-04:00

Sculptures and Pots.

Event Reminders

2009-08-25T20:12:00.000-04:00

Painting Pots for this Sunday!

2009-08-11T19:25:00.002-04:00

Bless this mess. I'm busy at work painting a whole bunch of new pieces.

I'm very proud to announce that for this Sunday's upcoming show in Grand Rapids, OH that I'll have an entire booth of new work.

New items include- more chip and dip sets, tall vases, "nesting bowls," and a bunch of new cups, with all new designs! Yea!

Featured colors schemes include- teal and chocolate brown as well as red and burgundy with avocado accents, in addition to the traditional Shine Ceramics repertoire.

Hope to see you this Sunday in Grand Rapids. The Sunset Art and Jazz Festival will be held from 2-9 along the toe path of the river near downtown. See the "Summer Shows" post for more information.

Cheers! One more time...

2009-08-09T17:57:00.008-04:00

Front and back of a jellyfish decanter- in progress. This piece, like the decanter in the previous post, is unfired and still drying.

It is constructed of multiple thrown and altered parts, slab pieces, and one of the finest handles I've ever pulled.
I can't wait to paint it...

One side features a jellyfish couple hunting for cuttlefish. The opposite side is decorated with a pair of jellyfish gracefully decending down into the depths.
This post is dedicated to Felicia, for consistently reminding me to post new work.

Cheers! A Decanter Set in Progress

2009-08-08T14:26:00.004-04:00

I've been wanting to make decanters since I went to the Matt Long/ Stephen Hill workshop at the Louisville NCECA (clay nerds, you know what I mean). I worked out a lot of craftsmanship issues at the Christa Assad workshop and this is my first attempt at a decanter set. Be assured that all of the pieces are completely sgraffito decorated inside and out, even the bottoms of the cups.

I wanted to create the impression of being surrounded in the middle of a flock of cranes. A lot of the birds appear from akaward angles and disrupt the viewer's spatial expectations. The bottom of the tray has a lovely drawing of a mother crane tending to her nest. I'll post more photos of this when it's finished.

An Afternoon in the Garden

2009-08-08T12:53:00.004-04:00

A Snapshot of the new work: Apothecary Bottle, Loving Jelly fish cup and a Jelly Fish Vase. The vase has been glaze fired, making the paint pigments their final vivid color. The cup and bottle are still in progress, with many more to come.

Summer Show Dates

2009-08-08T12:14:00.004-04:00

Shine Ceramics Upcoming Schedule

Sunday, August 16 from 2-8, Grand Rapids Sunset Art and Jazz Fest

This is a small show of artwork to accopmany the Jazz Fest. This year the committtee hand selected one artist from each medium usually shown (painting, photo, jewelry, glass, ceramics) instead of opening up the show to more competition. So, I'm excited to be the only potter! Yea!
Great art, great music, and food from some very nice area resturants should make for a great afternoon!

Show of the Year: Not to be Missed!
Saturday, August 29th from 7pm-2am, Raising the Bar II at Wesleys, 1201 Adams St., Downtown Toledo

After the success of the first "Raising the Bar" event last March at Wesley's, I've decided to bring it back for another round. This show should be even bigger and better than last year. I'm very excited to announce that JT AND THE CLOUDS will be performing that night (no cover!) as well. Could life be any more perfect? This is an all ages event until 10 pm, then we request any under-agers pack it up and head home for bed. New Shine Ceramics Signature work will be available, as well as another line of limited edition Wesley's gear, such as shot glass sets, pilsner glasses, and a handful of flasks with the Wesley's logo. Jason Mitchell (my fav bartender in town) will be behind the bar making sure everyone has a great time. The icing on the cake for this event? Buy any Shine Ceramics Pilsner glass and get your next beer (bottled, not even draft) for only $1. Let's hear it for Mike Roberts, owner of Wesley's who was kind enough to invite Shine Ceramics back for another great art party.

Sunday, September 13 from 9:30-4, Sylvania Arts and Crafts Festival at Lourdes College
Each year I keep saying I'm not going to do this show again the next year because the overall quality of the art seems to go down every year. However, I generate a lot of repeat business at this show from the people who have taste. Don't go to art shows and buy inexpensive yard decorations on copper poles that sit in your flower beds. Buy those things at your locally owned garden center.

I urge you buy watercolors, photos, paintings, prints, by ceramics, and if you can find a really fine draftsman, buy a large original drawing. Support artists who make work that challenges the viewer to stop and contemplate the meaning behind the work. Make the most of your money.

This will be the last show that I have before I move to Penland, NC for two months to study ceramics with Tara Wilson. This show will feature many items meant to make excellent gifts for weddings, anniversaries, and I apologize for mentioning it so early, but Christmas. Large platters, nesting bowl sets, coffee mug sets, tappas serving plates, et. will be in high supply.

Hope to See you Soon!
Jules

NYC Workshops

2009-07-18T02:01:00.002-04:00

Athough I feel amazingly guilty for not keeping up with the blog scene, I can't apologize for not keeping up with my cyber life when I've been out enjoying "real" life. Spring and summer have been an amazing whirl wind of travel and conferences related to ceramics, and I've been very busy refining my aesthetics and philosophy of making pots. I've never been happier and am making the best pots of my life. I'm currently in NYC at a Christa Assad workshop. She's an amazing potter and I'm can't begin to explain how informative watching her work has been. The workshop is at the Greenwich Village Pottery House, which I would give absolutely glowing reviews, and HIGHLY recommend other serious artists to check out. Great studio, very clean, good atmosphere, organized, GREAT people, phenomenal teachers. What else can I say?

Thank you to all who attended the Bartley Art Party and supported Shine Ceramics even though I wasn't there for the show.

Best Regards as always,
Jules