Chala Toprak
Sculpture
b. Istanbul, Turkey
Lives and works in Brooklyn, NY
Starting out as a fashion designer in her hometown of Istanbul, Chala Toprak, swapped out one metropolis for another and found a home in Brooklyn in 2019, where she first started working with clay. Toprak soon found solace at the pottery wheel and what began as a hobby quickly developed into a full-time pursuit.
ARTIST STATEMENT
“I work exclusively with the highest-quality porcelain because it allows me to experiment with the creative process and shape exquisite and fragile flowers. My pieces are a testament to the celebration of life, represented by the blooms we share with loved ones. Flowers remind us how we also can uniquely grow and blossom, just as each piece is handcrafted and glazed. Walking with my young son through Brooklyn, I find inspiration everywhere — from neighbors’ gardens to the local park — then research the shapes and petals that catch my eye. Pieces in the “Dear You” collection are meant to be used and enjoyed every day, and are purposefully beautiful to both see and touch. Like life, they are a gift, created with love and kindness from my hand to yours.”
SELECTED EXHIBITIONS
2024, Small Favors, The Clay Studio, Philadelphia, PA
2022, Exploring Vessels, Antler Gallery, Portland, OR
2021, 1000 Vases, Milan, Italy
Featured Gifts
In the Journal
Katy Degroot | Collector Profile
Katy Degroot is a digital creator turned fashion brand founder. With over 10 years of experience in the beauty space, Katy transitioned into entrepreneurship and launched her fashion brand, Thirty ...
Read moreDomino | Eric Wareheim | In the Press
Domino Magazine recently featured the Los Angeles Loft of comedian, actor, chef and tastemaker Eric Wareheim. The stunning design serves as a space to highlight the things he loves - mid-century...
Read moreArch Digest | Kaitlyn Vowels and Jeff Cooke | In the Press
Architectural Digest recently featured this historical Los Angeles home designed by Nina Freudenberger. The stunning design serves the history of the home while adding modernity. Featuring works by...
Read more