It’s not heavy, clunky or brown, and that’s how they like it.
The masterminds behind Bean & Bailey Ceramics, Jessie Bean Bailey and Anderson Bailey, say their work with clay isn’t what people typically expect with ceramics.
“The feel we want is dreamy and light,” Anderson Bailey said. “We feel like it’s appealing more to people who aren’t necessarily into pottery.”
By combining pastel colors, clean lines and a unique process, the end result doesn’t look like other handmade ceramics, he said. Instead of working with a pottery wheel, he and Jessica Bailey use liquid clay that is cast in ceramic molds to create unique shapes and vessels. The molds themselves can take up to six weeks to perfect.
“Because you’re not exactly sure how it’s made right away, people are attracted to the design,” Anderson Bailey said. “We’re influenced by contemporary design and our objects kind of take the Scandinavian ‘less is more’ mentality. We’re heavy on thoughtful design.”
Some of the duo’s best-selling items include hanging planters, bud vases, drinkware and small gemstone-inspired salt bowls. All of the items are completely functional, Anderson Bailey said. The drinkware and dishes are even dishwasher and microwave safe.
“We use all of this stuff every day and our lives are better because we use handmade objects,” Anderson Bailey said. “These are objects that feel good to hold and look at.”
Prices on the items range from $10-$120.
All of the items are made locally at Bean & Bailey Ceramics studio in Highland Park, just down the street from where the couple resides. The two relocated in Chattanooga and officially started their business in 2013 thanks to an ArtsMove grant they received from CreateHere.
“If it wasn’t for CreateHere, we probably wouldn’t be here,” Jessica Bailey said.
After graduating from Appalachian Center for Craft, the couple moved to Portland, Ore. Both worked under other artists before striking out on their own in Chattanooga. The duo also helped co-found Artifact, a crafter’s collective in Highland Park that’s home to several artists and artisans.
For more information or to order from Bean & Bailey Ceramics, visit beanandbailey.bigcartel.com. Visits to Bean & Bailey Ceramics’ Highland Park studio are also available by appointment. Contact Bean and Bailey through their website or by finding the business on Facebook.