Blue and white urn  « Vague de mer » from the collection « Présences »

Urns

I find deep enjoyment making artistic ceramic funeral urns.

There are so many choices that are available to the ceramic artist in the kind of clay used, the surface treatment and the glazes applied as well as the kind of firing done. All of these elements, when well chosen, can work together to reflect the individuality and the dignity of the person for whom the urn is created. The simple, elegant forms I make on the wheel want to be touched, held, beheld. Their patinas make them look very old, which goes well with my contemplative esthetic.

Blue and white urn « Vague de mer » from the collection « Présences »

 

Moss green ceramic urn and orchid pot from the collection « Présences »

Moss green urn et orchid pot from the collection « Présences »

Each urn can be accompanied by one or more complementary pieces created in the same style. The large commemorative bowl or platter is appropriate for sympathy cards or for an act of offering at the time of the funeral. It can also have a decorative function or be hung on the wall. The flower pot, placed in the meditation corner, keeps the memory of the person alive. In the face of the feelings of loss felt by those closest to the deceased, such a continuing presence in daily life can help promote the search for new meaning in life.

All these items can have a purely decorative or even sculptural function. My hope, however, is that, for those who are grieving, their personal symbolic significance will also help bring about a quieting, contemplative state.

These urns, all handmade in Quebec, respect the norms established by the Corporation des thanatologues du Québec in terms of their capacity, sealability and esthetic quality, worthy of their function.

If you would like more information, please contact me.


 Collection Asiatique


 Collection Présences


 Collection Shino


 Examples of unique pieces

Photographs © Holly Ratcliffe