Today we’d like to introduce you to Karen Ahaus.
Karen, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
Twenty four years ago, I began a Master’s degree in Art Education. I took my first Ceramics class and touched clay for the first time since first grade. It was love at first touch! Ceramics and pottery making was a hobby until 2011 when I began to sell my work. Ahaus (Ay-house) Pottery was born. I began selling my work at local art shows and markets. I opened my Etsy shop and never looked back. My pottery is deeply inspired by nature and my faith. I love to add curves or hand carve trees and flowers into my work. The colors of the glazes are mostly tints of blues and greens, the colors of earth and sky. Scripture finds its way into some of the artwork to inspire others to follow their faith.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
My very first market was at Grapefest in Grapevine, Texas in 2011. I was well prepared. However, my tent was not. It began raining and leaking in the tent. I was bailing out the water with my pottery. From then on, I made price tags that were waterproof for outdoor shows. I have been in shows where we had 30 mph wind gusts where my pottery was at risk of being damaged by anything flying like my tent or a neighbor’s. I prefer indoor shows for the sheer release of weather related worries. I have met some amazing artists along the way. We prop each other up when times are hard and celebrate with one another when times are good. Being a full time artist is hard work. The pay off is when someone says, “I can’t start my day unless I use one of your mugs” or “I leave your nativity out all year, it is so beautiful.”
Tell us more about the business.
At Ahaus Pottery, I make functional pottery for your kitchen and everyday life. I also make scripture and faith related small sculptures and plaques. The small nativity is my best selling item. A close second is the small sculpture of the Empty Tomb. The Perfect Mug is a favorite in my functional pottery line. Many people are attracted to the tints of blue and green that adorn my pottery. No brown pottery here! This is beautiful pottery for your everyday use.
Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
I have been lucky to have met some amazing women, creative business owners, in the last few years. This group of women have educated me on business and encouraged me along this journey.
Pricing:
- small ornaments $10
- nativity $20
- Specialty Serving Bowls $80
Contact Info:
- Website: www.ahauspottery.com
- Email: ahauspottery@yahoo.com
- Instagram: ahauspottery
- Facebook: ahauspottery
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