Believe in the Bee – Introducing Carol Mann
Mellifera Pottery – Bee Inspired
Beautiful wheel-thrown pottery inspired by a love of honey bees and nature.
Art can be distilled into many different things–for some, a way to deal with the world around them; an embodiment of life and soul as seen through the eyes of the artist. For me, my pottery infuses the inspiration and joy I find in the natural world. Whether it is the quiet and thoughtful self-reflection during the creation of each unique piece, I bring many of my loves and interests to my work. Taking up beekeeping as a hobby allowed me the most intimate view into the activities and workings of each hive. I have found myself both fascinated and smitten by these amazing creatures. A buzz of activity, bees are always working together in chorus and unison for mutual benefit of hive prosperity and nature with sweet results.
For me, the bees have been a wonderful and rewarding example of living an uncomplicated and simple life in harmony with those around you. Being both a potter and bee keeper has created the perfect combination to express my passion. When designing and crafting my bee-inspired works, I hope to share the joy and wonder they’ve gifted me. An important cause to foster, a portion of each of my sales are donated to The Honey Bee Conservancy– http://thehoneybeeconservancy.org/. The importance of these creatures cannot be said enough and I am proud to contribute to the cause of saving them.
Seven years ago, classes and workshops offered at Sawmill Pottery in Putnam Ct, allowed me to truly embrace this artful passion. A little over a year ago, I decided to sell my work, and started Mellifera Pottery along with an Etsy store. While I love wheel-throwing and hand-building techniques, I would be hard-pressed to pick a favorite. As far as firing my pieces, an electric kiln is used for most, but I have experience with gas raku, soda, and wood firings.
My studio is my happy space and has everything I need to create including my apprentice Bella, my yellow lab.
During the summer you can find my line at The Putnam Farmers’ Market and the Coventry Farmers’ at Hale Homestead in Coventry Ct.
My Etsy shop– Mellifera Pottery:https://www.etsy.com/shop/MelliferaPottery
Believe in the Bee