Jennifer Wankoff

My Pottery career emerged during a program at Kibbutz Kfar Hanasi in Israel taught by one of its founders. Along with pottery techniques, our teacher infused the class with Hebrew and Jewish and Israeli traditions and history. I also assisted a Jerusalem based clay artist and volunteered with new Ethiopian immigrants. Israelis immersed me in their diverse Jewish world of culture and folk art as well as their deep connection with land and agriculture.
Designing pottery that can be used and appreciated daily in the home is my passion but it has been especially rewarding and challenging to make Judaica ritual pieces to be used weekly for Shabbat and throughout the year for holidays. I enjoy crafting objects that reflect my love of Jewish culture and honor the earth and its beauty. Whether drinking a simple cup of coffee from my mug or saying prayers over candles with my candlesticks, I hope my pottery brings its owners a moment of beauty and appreciation for the ritual for many years.