Time for teapots at Ariana Gallery

Steeped in Tradition: the 19th annual Teapot Show opened last Saturday at Ariana Gallery in Royal Oak featuring elegant, whimsical and edgy teapots by more than 40 nationally recognized artists.

Gallery owner Anne Kuffler said that every year she’s amazed at the variety of work, and this year is no exception. Most of the teapots are ceramic, but there are several blown-glass pieces, like the stylish murrini-patterned teapots by Paul Counts and the colorful pear- and gourd-shaped teapots by Stephen Rich Nelson.

My favorite sculptured clay works in the exhibition include purse-shaped teapots by Meghan Runkle (Tea Bags), quirky skirted teapots by Ben Behunin, a charming turtle teapot (its long neck serves as the spout) by Rita Shields and playful teapots representing historical figures — Nefertiti, Abigail Adams and others — by Carrie Anne Parks.

I met Dearborn artist Patricia Goodell at the opening reception and it was evident that she loves texture. Her tiny teapots, most shaped like genie lamps, have different textural qualities — from stamped leaf patterns and freehand designs to milky and crystal finishes that come from throwing salt in the kiln (salt-fired glazes).

Goodell’s “Witches Brew” teapot looks like it might scoot away on its little legs. When she’s not creating her own art, Goodell works as a technician in the ceramics department at Henry Ford Community College.

“I’m very passionate about what I do,” she told me.

The teapot is the most difficult form to create, Kuffler said, noting that handle, spout, top and base must be in sync in order to properly pour the tea. Steeped in Tradition offers a balance between the traditional form and the artist’s creative interpretation of the time-honored teapot. Running through Dec. 10, the show just might tempt you to switch from java to darjeeling. Ariana Gallery is at 119 S. Main St. Call (248) 546-8810.

(this article was taken from hometownlife.com)