Calmwater Designs Pottery

Calmwater Designs Pottery is a small studio in New Hampshire which produces some of the best contemporary art pottery today. Owned by classically trained artist Stephanie Young, her pots are in demand all over the globe.

Young found inspiration from her mother, who was an antique dealer, and through her love of nature. She also found inspiration in local architecture and Art Nouveau crafts. Young attended the Art Institute of Boston. While attending school, Young taught at and managed many of the local art center studios. Young currently dedicates her time to her studio and exhibiting her pottery at various pottery conventions and shows. She also teaches a class at Harvard University in Cambridge, Massachusetts for the Ceramics Program.

Stephanie Young Calmwater Designs Pottery vessels are contemporary interpretations of classic Art Nouveau styles from 1890 -1910. Art Nouveau is defined as an ornamental style of long, sinuous, organic lines which take the shapes of flower stalks and buds, vines, insects and other delicate natural objects found in nature.

Calmwater Designs Pottery vessels are in classic shapes handcrafted in porcelain. The glazes are a matt finish over which are applied rich colors found in nature such as greens, blues, yellows, oranges and browns and oxidized shades of copper and bronzes. Typical motifs of dragonflies, mushrooms, butterflies, aquatic animals, florals, lizards, and insects are executed in exquisite detail.

Calmwater Designs Pottery is marked with SY within a square along with the date of the vessel. Young is the sole artist and producer of Calmwater Designs Pottery and production is limited to roughly 200 pieces a year. Each piece is hand-thrown by Young and her designs are carved freehanded onto the vessel. Next the vessel is fired. Then Young hand-paints her glazes on. Finally, the vessel is fired once more.

You have successfully subscribed! We will send you an email when the pottery you selected is updated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Stephanie Young’s pottery embodies a thoughtful blend of contemporary pottery aesthetics and traditional techniques. Known for her use of matte glazes and nature-inspired patterns, each item represents a sense of calmness and creativity. Collectors prize the distinct markings that signify Stephanie’s hands-on approach, making every piece truly one of a kind.
Authentic Calmwater Designs Pottery is typically marked with Stephanie Young’s signature or a distinctive studio mark. Collectors should look for her unique glaze techniques, especially the layered, matte finishes, and the signature. Buying from trusted sources, such as Just Art Pottery, ensures authenticity and quality.
Several factors can influence the value of Calmwater Designs Pottery, including condition, rarity, and the uniqueness of the glaze or design. Pottery vases with well-preserved, vibrant glazes and minimal wear tend to hold higher value.
To preserve the beauty of Calmwater Designs Pottery, avoid harsh cleaners and sudden temperature changes. Gently hand wash with mild soap and a soft cloth, and never place them in a dishwasher. Displaying the pieces away from direct sunlight helps maintain their colors and finish.
Restored pieces can still be valuable if professionally repaired, especially if the original form and artistic essence remain intact. However, restoration may slightly impact the value, so it’s essential to evaluate the quality of the repair and whether the piece retains its aesthetic appeal.