Focus On... Cynthia Vardhan And Free Gift With Purchase!

Cynthia Vardahan 
{in her own words}

I'm an independent ceramic designer working in downtown Columbus, Ohio and I specialize in intricately patterned, functional porcelain work.

The patterns that inspire me come from sources as varied as Moroccan tiles, Indian henna, French pastries and common garden ferns. I throw everything by hand on the wheel in my attic studio. I apply the colorful patterns using a unique technique which gives it a raised texture that people can run their fingers over and feel. By embracing intense, vivid, precise decoration and uniting it with sophisticated forms made from translucent porcelain, these pieces are totally unlike other ceramics out there.

Cynthia graciously answered my silly questions and allowed me to share her fabulous work with you. She is also offering a free gift with purchase just for Kate and Oli readers. Carry on to learn more about Cynthia and her work!

What kind of mediums do you use and why?

I use a very temperamental translucent porcelain purely because it is the best possible backdrop to my colors. Also, being able to hold the piece up to the light and see the patterns casting a shadow on the inside is pretty cool.

{set of 10 assorted dishes}

Where do you get your inspiration?

Traveling, the museums of decorative arts (LOVE the Victoria & Albert!) and textile design.

{sunny blue sky mug pair}

What is your favorite music to craft by?

I actually craft with documentaries running in the background. Thanks Columbus Metropolitan Library system!

{lil pink vase}

When it's cold outside... I start checking property prices in Florida.

{blue vase}

When I need a boost... I get out of town. A change of scenery does wonders!

{lime green mug}

If I could give one gift to everyone I know, it would be... organic, locally grown fruit & veg for life. What one eats has such a great effect on health and happiness. Which is the real gift I’d like to give everyone.

{indian henna dessert bowl pair}

If I could have coffee with anyone, it would be... either Hella Jongerius or Jonathan Adler. I'd love to quiz them on their career trajectory and get their business input.

{cream bud vase}

If you were an animal, what would you be?

Either a sloth or a well loved cat. Something that would allow me to be soft and lazy.

{rose bud vase}

What's your favorite piece of your own?

My favorite piece that I own is a tumbler I made and decorated purely as an experiment. It has swirls of similar patterns completely covering the cup. It quickly made its way into my house and now has a happy home in my bedroom where I use and pretend that I always use fine china in my house. :-)

{completely, totally, covered in decoration dessert bowl set}

{Fan Cynthia on Facebook} 

{Visit her Etsy shop}

{Visit her general website}

And, just for Kate and Oli readers, when you purchase from Cynthia's etsy shop, just mention you're a Kate and Oli reader and receive a small decorative dish for free!