ArtFire Studio Profile: HarmonArt

Compared to heavyweight Etsy, ArtFire (www.artfire.com)may be the new kid on the virtual art market block. But this up and coming arts and crafts online marketplace is full of talented artists and amazing works. One studio bound to become a hit at ArtFire is HarmonArt.

HarmonArt is the work of husband and wife team Brian and Emily Harmon. Being both full-time school teachers, the Harmons use their summers off to create their art. In HarmonArt's ArtFire studio, you will find both earthenware pottery and decorative gourds. "I do most of the gourd work and my husband does most of the pottery. However, we often have a small hand in each other's work," says Emily. This close working bond is evident in the organic, autumnal style shared by all of their work. Both artists agree that autumn is their favorite season. "We both get so much inspiration from the warm colors of autumn and the natural shapes of the leaves," the Harmons say.

This inspiration is evident in the pottery of HarmonArt. Most of the pottery is either leaf shaped or bears the imprint of leaves. Actual leaves are used in the making of the pieces and are then burned off in the kiln. This gives each piece a unique, one of a kind look. Often, after getting the impression and shape of the leaves, the Harmons then shape and form the clay into functional bowls and trays. These leaf bowls would make a perfect catch-all to place on your desk, dresser, or coffee table. Also featured in the ceramic side of HarmonArt's studio are ceramic wall pockets. Theses small vases are designed to be filled with flowers and then hung on the wall allowing the owner to add a bright floral arrangement to any room.

The gourd work of HarmonArt also bears the warm earth tones of autumn. Emily's unique gourds are not your typical holiday painted gourds. She has taken a unique path in gourd art combining the organic, brown form of the dried gourds with stylized geometric patterns. The line work on the gourds has a sophistication often lacking in gourd art. All of HarmonArt's gourd designs are hand drawn and then either painted or colored using permanent inks. The gourds are often then leather dyed to echo the deep reds, oranges, and browns so common with the fall season. My personal favorite of her gourds though, has to be her inventive "gourdaments." These tiny gourds are hand painted, sealed, and then an eye hook is placed on the top. This turns a once useless squash into a unique Christmas ornament ready to be hung or traded in your next gift exchange.

If you are someone who is in love with the feel and colors of fall, you simply must check out HarmonArt's studio. You will be amazed at how well they capture the season in their functional and decorative arts. Watch out Esty, this studio is sure to get the ball moving at ArtFire.