welcome to b.stro ceramics
Ceramics by Ben Strohbeen handmade in Wisconsin.
Functional art - tableware, kitchenware, storage vessels, planters, and more.
Learn about my work and get in touch below!
Upcoming
Events
Find b.stro ceramics at markets, pop-ups, and studio gatherings.
Artist Statement
My work explores the art of everyday ritual like setting the table, sitting down, eating alone, eating together. I’m chasing the stuff that makes you feel awake, even for a second, in the middle of a normal day. Through this work, I aim to create objects that slow people down and restore attention to the small rituals that shape daily life.
I make handmade ceramics in Wisconsin. I love functional pieces like mugs, bowls, plates, and pouring forms designed to be used every day. And specialty art pieces like fermenting jars and functional guitars.
I care about weight and balance, like a handle that feels right and organic surfaces that hold the memory of making the piece. Weight, balance, texture, and surface are intentional. Many of my pieces retain visible traces of process as evidence of the hand and the time involved, valuing intimacy and presence of a form.
I am influenced by Japanese ceramics and Midwestern craft traditions that honor durability and use. I believe meaning is found in the objects we touch every day. A cup should elevate the coffee it holds and a bowl should earn its place at the table. Through this work, I aim to create objects that slow people down and restore attention to the small rituals that shape daily life.
Lately I’ve been building creatures. Whether a functional or art piece, a creature is a small weird presence you keep around. I want the first reaction to be surprise, laughter, and a little “what is that thing,” and then for it to settle into comfort: a creature that quietly joins your daily habits.
Custom Pieces
I would love to create something just for you - please reach out to learn more.
I have added some information below that may be helpful for you to think about and send over to me to help in the design process:
Design
Let's figure out I am making - I want something we're both ultimately happy with.
Purpose? Shape? Size? Sketches, description, reference pictures all welcome.
Creating
Making the piece(s) we settled on - throwing, building, rolling, playing with clay. Involves multiple days - weeks between manipulating the wet clay, letting it dry, trimming it, and continue drying. From there we need to bisque fire, glaze, then glaze fire the pieces - so it can take some time.
Getting to You
Once the pieces are created I will get them to you asap. Either via local pick-up/drop-off or shipped.
FAQs
What's your lead time? How long will it take? How early should I reach out about an order?
Ceramics can take a while from beginning to end. Please allow at least 4 weeks for creating your custom piece(s) (after our design conversation).
If you need something faster, please ask and I will let you know if it is possible.
I would like a set of pieces, like a set of dinner plates, can you do that?
Absolutely! Let me know how many you need.
Contact
Get in touch if you have any questions or would like to order a custom piece.
Feel free to use the form below or email me at Ben@bstroceramics.com.