I, Chala Toprak, began my journey as a fashion designer in the vibrant streets of Istanbul. After nine exhilarating years, I sought a change from the fast pace and long nights that defined my life. In 2019, I traded one metropolis for another, finding a new home in Brooklyn. It was here that curiosity led me to a ceramics class, and from the very first moment I worked with clay, I felt an undeniable connection that would forever shape my path.

What started as “Tiny Studio” during the pandemic, blossomed into a profound passion. At the pottery wheel, I discovered solace and creative freedom, allowing me to express myself in ways I had never imagined. Ceramics quickly transformed from a hobby into my full-time pursuit, and today, I proudly create my pieces in a private studio.

I experiment with various clay bodies, which fuels my creative process and adds depth to my work. Each piece I create celebrates life, much like the blooms we share with loved ones. Flowers serve as a powerful reminder that we, too, can grow and flourish, each uniquely, just as every piece I craft is distinctly hand-made. Inspiration flows from the gardens of my neighbors to the local parks, where I study the shapes and textures that ignite my imagination, translating them into my design language.

I often begin with a vision, allowing my hands to collaborate with my eye as I employ both wheel and hand-building techniques. This ensures that each creation is truly one-of-a-kind; in the details, you may even find traces of my hands—fingerprints that tell a story. My work undergoes various firings, from electric kilns to anagama, each technique enhancing the beauty of the final piece.

With a keen eye for luminescence, I select clay bodies that allow me to add delicate, paper-thin details, creating art that reflects the vibrancy of life. As I continue to explore the boundless possibilities of ceramics, I remain dedicated to crafting pieces that resonate with the beauty and resilience of our shared experiences. My journey is one of constant discovery, and I look forward to where this path will lead me next.