Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Nina Kawar. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Nina, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Earning a full time living from one’s creative career can be incredibly difficult. Have you been able to do so and if so, can you share some of the key parts of your journey and any important advice or lessons that might help creatives who haven’t been able to yet?

It was in 2021 that I took the leap and went full-time as an artist; yet it has taken years to build up my practice to get where I am at today. After leaving graduate school in 2014, I chose to follow my heart and pursue an art career as a working artist, versus teaching at an institution. First thing I did was get a studio and within 6 months I started my first craft business; all while still creating my fine art. I honestly had no idea what I was doing, but pretty quickly I got into craft shows and found my way. It was about five years ago that I changed my brand from “Nina K Designs” to “Pure Ritual”. This was a game changer for me as I began creating work that spoke to a particular community of people, all while finding my voice and refining my craft. This line of work consists of handmade porcelain metaphysical tools, sculptures and jewelry created to support one’s spiritual practice and personal well-being. This unique collection is inspired by sacred geometry, elements of nature, ancient symbols, and healing. Making my own clay is an important part of the process, as well as each piece is individually hand-carved. I have built up this collection, finding those that are in alignment with my offerings. “Pure Ritual” has now been my bread and butter as I continue to evolve in all aspects of my creative work. My fine art is a pinnacle part of my creative expression and given the space I’ve created to support myself within my business, this has given me the freedom to create this body of work without putting pressure on my intuitive artworks. Since graduate school, I have continued to consistently create, exhibit, and sell my fine art; but it is yet to pay the bills. I feel confident I am moving in that direction as I too continue to grow as an individual and an artist. Whether it be with porcelain, metal, paper, or wood it is the process of creating that feeds my soul. I am so grateful I have found this expression and for all those that continue to support me on this journey.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

In 2009, at 27 years old I chose to return to school and pursue a BFA in 3D-Design. Fresh out of a divorce and perhaps coming home to myself for the very first time, I knew I needed to follow my heart and honor a calling I have always sensed lived within me. Following the breadcrumbs, I received an MFA in Ceramics from Clemson University in 2014, eventually leading me here today, living as a full-time artist. As a creator, I consider myself a sculptor, designer and teacher. Although I continue to experiment and evolve within my work, the last decade or so I have focused my attention on developing and mastering the craft of porcelain. This has consisted of small and large scale sculptures, home decor, jewelry, functional ware, and installations. Within this exploration, I have learned to listen and allow the material to speak to me, dropping into an intuitive space within creating. This state of flow is indeed my favorite place to be. Working with this particular clay body has taught me so many lessons, such as patience, letting go, embracing imperfections and listening. All these attributes have assisted me in being more present in my body, as well with others. With a deep intrigue in the human condition, my work is grounded in healing and inspired by elements and biology found within nature. The process of my work has been one of my greatest teachers and healers. I have come trust that those who choose to engage in my fine art, it too can be a mirror and catharsis for their own healing.

Alongside my fine art, I have also created a business that supports my desire and call to create. “Pure Ritual” is a body of work that allows for the artist, designer and businesswoman in me to shine. This collection has taught me the logical aspects within the world of art. Still a work in progress, this work too continues to evolve, just as I am. The journey within the craft world has been an important process in finding my voice and expressing my creativity. The most challenging part has been navigating the world of marketing. Staying true to my style, all while learning how to entice and draw customers to my offerings. Although this facet is challenging for me at times, it has taught me how to present my work authentically, helped me gain confidence in my craftsmanship and to trust in the unfolding of this collection. I am especially excited in my new line of copper electroformed jewelry that has come to fruition in the last year. This series has allowed for the artist and scientist in me to learn a new process that feeds my thirst for experimentation; all while designing one-of-a-kind jewelry. I have been interested in finding ways to implement gemstones, fossils and elements found in nature for years and this seems to be the ticket. It makes my heart flutter envisioning the possibilities this process of copper electroforming can do for the evolution my fine art as well!

At this point in my career, I am thoroughly enjoying the freedom in creating my own path. I most definitely have not subscribed to any traditional way of creating, let alone how I present myself and my work. I have three bodies of work which include my fine art, porcelain metaphysical tools and copper electroformed jewelry. I also have returned to teaching and look forward to stepping more into the role of being a mentor and coach within the world of creativity. Currently I teach one-on-one ceramic classes in my studio, mentoring a MFA graduate student, as well as offering creative coaching to individuals ready to tap into their own creative flow.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

One of the most rewarding aspects of being an artist is when I get to witness the emotion response of the viewer when taking in my work. It especially warms my heart to I hear the stories and connection the creations generate. Whether it be my fine art or craftwork, it has been a magical experience to be the conduit of this creative energy that flows through me. It is also a blessing to witness the work find its home and to know it is not only a healing for me, but for others as well.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

I sense I am in that liminal space currently with my business, Pure Ritual. The last 2 ½ years I have been working fulltime in designing, creating, and selling porcelain metaphysical tools and jewelry. It most definitely has been rewarding, while there are aspects of the business that is shifting because of my need in honoring my body and overall well-being. I have worked over 50 craft shows this year, and as a one woman show, this has been taxing on my body for many of reasons. I have come to recognize that change needs to happen. I am moving towards less shows, transitioning to selling more online and allowing space for teaching.

This realization has been an unfolding, as I recently I taught myself a new process called copper electroforming in January of 2023. This has allowed me to drop into an intuitive space in its creation, much like my fine art, and I’m starting to shift the physical requirement it takes in setting up shows. Jewelry weighs much less than ceramics for one! My customers also have been on fire for this new line of work; and I too feel a new sense of inspiration and passion for the creations that are pouring out of me.

As mentioned above, I am also hearing the call to pursue teaching more. This will take the stress off my body and allow to me to share my skills, wisdom, and passion for creating, as I truly believe we are all creators. Having taught one-on-one ceramics in my studio for years, it has been so fulfilling to assist others on their creative path. Working with students ranging from ages 5 to 76 and all levels, I am experiencing a new sense of purpose that only comes with working with others. So, as I step into another year I trust that I will continue to develop this new line of copper and gemstone jewelry, teaching and creating my fine art. Perhaps that means the porcelain metaphysical tools are only available through commission; but I have come to peace that the work has evolved, and I am still creating unique pieces of art that are touching the hearts of many and assisting them on their journey.

Contact Info:

• Website: http://www.ninakawar.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ninakawar/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pureritualcreations
• Other: https://www.pure-ritual.com https://www.instagram.com/pure_ritual/ https://pureritualcreations.etsy.com

Image Credits
J.L. ROBERTS PHOTOGRAPHY