A trained chef, Ranjita pursued her passion for pottery and has made a mark for herself as an independent potter. Ranjita hand crafts high temperature stoneware and wood fired functional pottery. We catch up with Rajita about her pottery and her showcase at the By Hand From The Heart Makers Market in Coimbatore.
Having initially trained as a chef I worked in kitchen around Mumbai and U.K for 9 years. In 2010 a chance encounter with clay in a hobby center in Bangalore eventually led me to Golden Bridge Pottery, Pondicherry in 2011. I remained in Golden Bridge for 5 1/2 years, where I continued to develop my skills. I assisted Ray Meeker in 2014. I then taught for 2 years till I left in 2016 to start another chapter of my life. I currently work with another potter in Auroville where I make my largely functional pieces. I use a rich brown stoneware clay body to make my pots which I fire in a wood kiln up to 1300 degrees centigrade for 18-20 hours.
Why is making important to you
I enjoy working with my hands. I find being a chef and a potter are quite similar. Both require hard work, creativity and discipline. Whether it’s cooking or making pots I’ve always enjoyed the anticipation of fulfilling the expectations of the person I’m offering my work to
The happiness my work brings to someone who appreciates it. Engaging in conversation with someone who is truly interested in my work. And seeing my pots being used.
What are you displaying at By Hand From The Heart in Coimbatore.
I’m bringing a lot of bowls to Coimbatore. So prepare to be bowled over. Also jars… I love jars… one can never have enough of them. Essentially am bringing a lot of utilitarian ware. And cups and platters.
Meet the Maker at By Hand From The Heart: MAKERS MARKET – 22nd Edition
Date: Friday – Saturday, 2nd – 3rd February, 2018
Time: 10:00 a.m – 8:00 p.m
Venue: Jenneys Residency – Ruby Hall & Art Houz Gallery
Address: 2/2, Avinashi Road, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu 641014. India.
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