Cult Following: Photographer Jim Franco's Ceramic Bowls - Remodelista
Photography by Gentl & Hyers for Dara Artisans. In between shoots far and wide, New York lifestyle photographer Jim Franco became obsessed with making hand-thrown pottery. Jim and his partner, Joe Maer, now run a busy photo prop house and have an online boutique under construction. All of Jim’s work is made of porcelain, and his speciality is the small, functional–and photogenic–bowl: “I like the challenge of making a bowl that looks and feels comfortable. Japanese ceramic artists seem to somehow imbue simple forms with power. It’s an approach I’ve always admired.” Shown here, a collection in a variety of glazes, including matte cream with blush accents and matte shamo glaze with dark brown brushwork. “Working on the wheel demands undivided attention,” says Jim. Jim sells his bowls by request and through several shops, including online global emporium Dara Artisans, which sold out its most recent collection overnight. Watch for the next batch at Dara Artisans in early February. A collection of bisque bowls. Above L: Jim’s hands covered with slip. Stacking bowls in emerald glaze, including one with a spout. Matte glazes in shades of sky blue and emerald. Interested in learning yourself? To see more, including Jim’s own photographs of his work, go to Jim Franco Ceramics.