Our Mission:
New Life Artisans uses responsibly collected natural materials (fallen trees and recycled clay) to create one-of-a-kind functional objects for the home and garden. They have a natural theme to remind us of our symbiotic relationship with our environment. Natural processes, such as photosynthesis and pollination, are essential to life as we know it. Additionally, nature can bring beauty and enrichment to our lives every day if we take the time to look and appreciate it. A reconnection with nature will rejuvenate our spirits and regenerate our planet, bringing new life to us all.
Each of our creations tells a story. Wood items are named after the environmentalists who inspired them. Pottery pieces highlight places with environmental issues or success stories. As you browse our selections, you’ll learn more about problems and solutions around the globe. We hope our creations will add a touch of nature to your life, sparking a desire for more involvement with the natural world. Your purchase will support efforts to preserve our environment, as 15% of profits will be donated to The Nature Conservancy.
Brenda Blaesing
Brenda’s first art experience as an adult was a college photography class where she spent more time in the darkroom than on her major (biology). Photography became an important part of her life, helping her see the world with an artist’s eye. About ten years ago, she and Blaine signed up for a pottery class and instantly became hooked by the Zen-like nature of turning clay into functional art. Then a one-day woodturning class sparked another passion, closely related to working on a potter’s wheel. Whether working with clay or wood, Brenda approaches each piece as a collaboration between her basic idea and what the material is telling her. Her work reflects her individuality, sensibilities and spirit.
Blaine Blaesing
Blaine’s passion for art began 50 years ago when he first put pencil to paper in an elementary school art class. Since then his creative sense has taken him on a long journey from drawing to abstract photography and now to pottery and woodturning. Each leg in the journey taught him new ways to see and feel his art. Blaine always tries to find a fresh approach, striving to create something unique and new. For Blaine, woodturning and throwing on a wheel evoke a Zen-like focus that enables him to see the patterns and feel the rhythms in the wood and clay. This ‘oneness’ fosters a synergy between the artist and the media, the spirit of which is reflected in the final piece.