Garrett and Jessica have been collaborating since 2019 after they met through a combination of serendipity and artistry when Garrett purchased one of Jessica’s vases in a Chicago store. 

Over the years they have crafted a series of different projects together, determining what would be the best blend of their skills and mediums. The first collection of collaboratively crafted pieces was released in April of 2023 and second in November of the same year. This third group of pieces showcases new functional vase forms which can hold water and flowers and continues exploring and refining lidded jar forms.

Jessica makes each ceramic piece by hand, using no molds for the process, so each lid must be crafted off of every individual jar’s unique shape. This collection features all stoneware clay and selection of mostly dark and deeply rich glazes, all of which are formulated in her Milwaukee studio.

Once a jar is complete it is taken to Chicago where a handcrafted lid is made from carefully selected, unique, wood. Garrett chooses wood that will be most complimentary to the shape and glaze of the piece, with an eye towards unique figure and grain patterns. A lid is cut to fit the jar shape, using tools of his violin making trade. He then follows the curves and shape of the ceramic so the wood lid feels like a continuous shape, marrying the two mediums. Using techniques similar to those in crafting violin pegs the handle is made using either the same wood as the lid or one that is complementary to the lid design. It is then sanded and polished to emulate the feel of the satin glazed ceramic, creating the illusion that the two mediums are truly one. 

Each piece takes weeks to craft and is a true labor of love between two artists in two different cities. Due to the time consuming nature of crafting the pieces, these are an extremely limited run and only two batches will be released in 2024. Included with your jar is a note from the artists including the batch and item number. These pieces are sculptural items and not intended to be food safe.