Betsy Gram

Bio

Betsy Gram is a ceramic artist living in Ithaca, NY, with her husband and son. In addition to working as a studio artist, she also teaches classes at The Clay School of Ithaca. Betsy discovered her love of clay during high school and went on to earn her BFA in Ceramics from Penn State University in 1999. Betsy’s work has been exhibited regionally as well as nationally, and can be found for sale in regional artisan markets and shops.

Artist Statement

Betsy Gram’s work is formed using various hand-building techniques, such as slab work, coiling, and pinching, resulting in pieces that are whimsical and organic. The white stoneware clay provides a clean background for hand-painted patterns created with under-glazes. The influences of this embellishment include Art Deco patterns, the natural world, and her grandmother’s quilts. These influences are woven together onto the surface of her work as a celebration of things she holds dear to her: the beauty she finds on her walks and in her garden, the history of makers within her family, and the soothing, meditative quality of both creating and observing repetitive patterns. 

Straddling the line between functional and decorative, Betsy’s work is made to bring joy and beauty to the lives of their users. Her hope is that the use of her pieces will inspire mindful enjoyment of food and beverage and elevate the mundane routine to meaningful moments. The enjoyment of a simple cup of coffee is elevated to a special morning ritual. A bowl of fruit becomes a centerpiece. A plate displayed on a plate rail is brought down to the table for a special meal. The user is inspired to slow down and be present as they enjoy the use of a handmade object. Beauty and utility are brought together in the home.

Exhibitions