Our Story
Continuing a Tradition of Artistry and Empowerment
Discover the captivating world of SaleenArt USA, the exclusive importer of exquisite handmade ceramic creations of SaleenArt. Founded by Seda Aktaş, SaleenArt USA brings the beauty and artistry of SaleenArt, made in Kütahya, Türkiye, to homes and other spaces across the United States from our gallery in Houston, Texas. If you're in town, we'd love to have you visit our gallery. If you love ceramics in the United States, we import the pinnacle of quality contemporary Turkish ceramics, and are ready to ship them to you. Welcome to our world!
Our Story
Inspired by a shared passion for preserving traditional craftsmanship, championing the contemporary, empowering women, and their shared heritage, Seda and Selin embarked on this unique venture. Seda, a seasoned entrepreneur, was captivated by Selin's artistic vision and the exquisite ceramics produced in her atelier in Kütahya, Türkiye and displayed at SaleenArt gallery in Istanbul, Türkiye. While the original designs bring forth the intersection of art and design with an innovative outlook, approachable pricing is meant to introduce SaleenArt products to make designer ceramics non-intimidating to the end customer, which is why we work with Retail, Trade, and Wholesale alike. Together, these cousins are bringing Selin's contemporary creations to the American market, shipped out of Houston, Texas to anywhere in the continental United States.
The Heart of SaleenArt
Selin Esendemir Abdian is the Owner and Designer of SaleenArt, which has operated for over a decade in Istanbul, Türkiye; exporting to over 71+ countries, employing an atelier of 70+ skilled artisans 87% of whom are women who are overseen by a female Chief Master Artisan in Kütahya, Türkiye.
Selin designs from SaleenArt's Istanbul gallery, and SaleenArt's atelier in Kütahya, Türkiye meticulously brings each of Selin's contemporary original designs to life by handcrafting them at each stage. The atelier's small production runs begin with shaping the clay, continue with hand-painting intricate designs, and end with glazing by hand; entirely infused with passion and expertise, as well as proprietary clays, colors, glazes.
Standing behind her product and dreams in a country boasting centuries of ceramics heritage, Selin has repeatedly doubled-down on SaleenArt's promise of heirloom quality mixed with contemporary design, has won numerous awards in Türkiye as well as the respect of designers in visual art industries from fashion to television. Selin's latest creations are also showcased in a dedicated gallery in Istanbul, offering a glimpse into the evolving world of SaleenArt.
Our Collections
Explore our curated collections, featuring a range of stunning pieces:
- Vases: From classic silhouettes to modern interpretations, our vases add a touch of elegance to any space.
- Jars: Discover an array of decorative jars, perfect for storing treasures or adding a decorative accent to your home.
- Decorative Plates: Adorn your walls with our unique hand-painted plates, each one a work of art.
- Sculptures: Bring a touch of artistic expression to your décor with our captivating sculptures.
We believe in:
- Artistry: We celebrate the beauty of handcrafted artistry and the unique expression of each artisan.
- Quality: We are committed to offering exquisite ceramics made with the finest materials and techniques.
- Empowerment: We support female artisans in Turkey, providing them with opportunities for economic independence and creative expression.
- Sustainability: We strive to minimize our environmental impact by using eco-friendly practices and materials.
Experience the artistry of SaleenArt and bring a touch of handcrafted elegance to your home with SaleenArt USA.
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Our Traditions
Our Connection
Before she ever embarked on her college journey in Istanbul, Selin Esendemir Abdian grew up in Kütahya, a city nestled in the heart of Turkey, that is renowned for its rich history and vibrant culture. But beyond its historical landmarks and scenic mountainous beauty lies a treasure trove of artistic heritage: Kütahya ceramics.
For centuries, Kütahya has been a hub of ceramic production, captivating the world with its exquisite craftsmanship and unique designs. The pinnacle of quality in SaleenArt USA products are empowered by centuries of Kütahya ceramics tradition and innovation honored by SaleenArt's atelier in Kütahya, perfected over a decade, always in the moment, in the hands of a master artisan who brings each of Selin's dreamy contemporary designs to life. We are proud to bring you the best of contemporary Kütahya ceramics.
A Journey Through Time
The town of Kütahya, Turkiye, lies approximately seventy miles south of Bursa in a fertile plain on the Anatolian, its soil abundant with clay facilitating the rise of Kütahya as a major center of ceramic production, especially under the Ottoman Empire. The tradition of Kütahya ceramics dates back to the 14th century, with influences from Seljuk and Ottoman art flourishing in the town of Iznik, prolific in porcelain production at the time, also in modern day Turkiye.
The collapse of Iznik kilns led to a demand for a new type of colorful and cheaper ceramic ware to rival porcelain. Kütahya's strategic location on the Silk Road allowed for a fusion of artistic styles, resulting in a unique blend of Eastern and Western influences when a mixed population of Greek and Muslim Kütahya ceramists, possibly with the help of Armenian potters from Persia, began to respond to the demand with new shapes and ornaments in polychrome and blue and white. Kütahya ceramics reached its peak during the Ottoman Empire, with Kütahya tiles playing a great part both in Ottoman architecture and in Armenian Church history, adorning palaces and mosques with their intricate beauty from Constantinople to Jerusalem.
The Art of Kütahya Ceramics
What sets Kütahya ceramics apart is the meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail. Skilled artisans, often passing down their knowledge through generations, meticulously handcraft each piece. The process involves shaping the clay, applying intricate designs, and hand-painting with vibrant colors before firing in kilns.
Distinctive Features
- Intricate Patterns: Kütahya ceramics are known for their elaborate patterns, often featuring floral motifs, geometric designs, and traditional Ottoman art.
- Vibrant Colors: The use of bold and vibrant colors, such as turquoise, cobalt blue, and emerald green, adds to the allure of these ceramics.
- Hand-Painted Detail: The meticulous hand-painting brings each piece to life, showcasing the artist's skill and creativity.
- Variety of Forms: From decorative plates and tiles to vases, bowls, and ewers, Kütahya ceramics encompass a wide range of forms and functions.
Modern Interpretations
While Kütahya ceramics are deeply rooted in tradition, Selin Esendemir Abdian is a contemporary artist who is embracing this heritage with a modern twist. The core of SaleenArt is about experimenting with new forms, colors, and patterns, while still preserving the essence of this ancient art form.
Experiencing Kütahya Ceramics
If you're captivated by the beauty of Kütahya ceramics, there are several ways to experience this art form:
- Visit Kütahya: Explore the city's workshops and museums to witness the craftsmanship firsthand and purchase authentic pieces.
- Explore Online: Many online retailers and galleries specialize in Kütahya ceramics, offering a wide selection of traditional and contemporary pieces.
- Support Artisans: By purchasing Kütahya ceramics, you are supporting the preservation of this valuable cultural heritage and empowering the skilled artisans who keep this tradition alive.
- Visit SaleenArt USA for the best selection of heirloom quality ceramics creations by SaleenArt.
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