On the inauguration of Ugam Utsav. Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

For many people, pottery making is not just a craft; It is a form of meditation, a tactile escape from the frenetic pace of modern life. As hands shape the clay and the wheel spins, there is a singular focus that can calm the mind and provide a release from daily pressures. Pottery is a medium where quiet, repetitive movements offer a mindful retreat, encouraging a return to slower, more deliberate activities.

Namrata Barua, founder of A Ware Studio in Indiranagar, sees the process as more than just creating functional art; For them, it’s a chance to share this meditation practice with a growing community. “I got into pottery making, spending countless hours practicing and learning,” she says. “As I progressed, I started sharing my work on social media, which Custom orders and learning opportunities available. In 2021, I began offering structured courses, ranging from weekend workshops for hobbyists to intensive, long-term programs for aspiring professional potters.

Similarly, for Shweta Sundar, studying at A Ware, making pottery has been both a skill and solace. During a challenging period, she found that working with clay gave her the grounding she needed. Now, alongside other emerging artists, she brings her creations to life in the shared studio space, and uses her own transformation to inspire her work.

Potters from A Ware Studio and GOAK Ceramics (founded by Gauri Oak) in Indiranagar will showcase their art in the second edition of their annual event, Ugam.

Gauri Oak (left) and Namrata Barua, founders of Ugam | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

The festival highlights the works of artists at different stages of their pottery journey. The exhibition gives potters a platform to not only present their collections but also the personal stories that have shaped them.

For GOAK ceramics student Vineeta Chandy, Ugam is the culmination of dedicated practice. She will unveil her Christmas-themed collection, with each piece handcrafted and hand-painted, evoking the warmth and charm of the holiday season. “From plates to bowls, my collection is designed to enhance the festive spirit of a Christmas party,” she says. Over the course of months of practice, he spent approximately 150 hours carefully shaping, trimming, glazing and firing each piece.

Gauri of GOAK Ceramics, co-host of Ugam, says the festival is a platform to promote growth and camaraderie among budding potters like Vineeta. “By showcasing the work of our students, we aim to inspire and uplift the pottery community. It is a place where young, talented individuals can gain exposure, gain recognition and connect with potential clients and patrons,” she says. “Ugam, in Sanskrit, means the gradual emergence or beginning of a river. It reflects the journey of our students overcoming the challenges and rewards of pottery.”

On the inauguration of Ugam Utsav. Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

Meanwhile, Namrata’s student Shweta Sundar has designed a collection of barware—beer mugs, goblets, shot glasses and chip-and-dip sets, keeping in mind the memories of cozy gatherings during the pandemic—all in a spirit of comfort and camaraderie. Inspired by shared moments. , “During that time, we found solace in simple pleasures like sharing drinks and snacks,” she says. Her collection is a tribute to those connections and the power of pottery to connect emotionally with people. Is in search of. She believes pottery is impactful because it offers a unique blend of healing and mindfulness, creating space for reflection amid a world often focused on productivity.

“Pottery has taught me the importance of being present and enjoying the journey. It reminds us to enjoy the small moments and find joy in the simple act of creation,” says Shweta.

Ugam is on 16th November from 10 am to 7 pm at Jeevanam Yoga, Indiranagar.