HOW TO BEGIN A COMMISSION

Image of Kala arranging ceramic wall art on a table

For a commissioned art installation, architectural tile, or any custom ceramic piece, I begin by meeting with the collector/client to learn about their needs, wants, inclinations, and site-specificity. I want to know the formal and conceptual limitations/allowances including exposure to the elements, surrounding and supporting architecture, scale, color, subject, etc. in order to make an informed proposal. Collaborating with the collector is a wonderful opportunity to make something truly unique and I truly enjoy this process. Email me with your ideas and to set up a Zoom meeting or a phone call!

All concepts are designed considering the specificity of the site, the experience, safety, durability, and above all the collector’s interests. Integrity is paramount for me- in the execution, longevity, meaning, and customer experience. I am detail-oriented and value clear communication throughout the process. Commissioned, custom, architectural tile installations begin at $5,000. If this is not in your budget, contact me and I may have something in inventory that will suit your needs and budget.

Please keep in mind that two-dimensional mock-ups loosely represent ceramic material (clay and glaze). The quality of the mock-ups do not represent the end product completely due to material conversions, design iterations, and limitations of software rendering. Most designs are presented in a modular system so they can be scaled up or down depending on the space that the installation is designed for and easily transported and installed.

Methodology

I combine research, personal experience, material testing, and tooling to create the best artwork I can. My work is comparable to painting on a canvas, where I’m making the canvas as well. Unlike commercial tile or typical mosaic, I hand form each tile or object, one by one, and glaze each one individually. Each piece is handled at least a dozen times- from the wet clay state through multiple firings, finishing, and shipping or installation. I often work with collectors for custom clay and glazes as part of customization. I enjoy working on a large scale and with that, comes many challenges and structural/logistical considerations at all stages. For structural advising, I consult my husband and collaborator who is a licensed contractor and in many cases installs the work as well.

WHY CERAMICS?

Kala Stein standing in front of ceramic wall art

Ceramic is used because it is color-fast, archival, durable, easy to clean, and a dynamic material. Almost anything is possible with ceramic, but project-specific testing is required in order to get accurate samples. The chemistry of the glazes and clays are affected by the firing process, the clay/glaze interface, and the source of raw materials used. I have over 2 decades of experience working with all types of clay and forming techniques, design, and installation.