How the Story has been Molded . . .
In the heart of Geneva, Illinois, a community celebrated for its vibrant local scene, I had the pleasure of speaking with Resa, a remarkable artisan who has embraced pottery as her “second act.” Resa’s journey from bookkeeping to becoming a potter is a story of rediscovery and passion, a narrative that resonates deeply within our community.
Resa, who calls LaSalle, Illinois, home, has been integrating her creative pursuits with her family life, involving her daughter in a joint venture named Little Vermilion Crafts. This name, inspired by the river near their home, symbolizes their commitment to staying rooted in personal and local histories.
Her transition to pottery began as a hobby but quickly evolved into a sanctuary during the pandemic. Despite the challenges of finding a nearby studio, leading to long commutes just to practice her craft, Resa’s dedication never wavered. She found solace and expression in the clay, turning her newfound passion into a business venture that also involved her family.
The collaborative spirit between Resa and her daughter, Sarah, highlights the familial bond and shared love for creativity. Even as her daughter moved into a full-time job, she remains a partner in the craft, and continues to play a significant role in the business, demonstrating the enduring partnership this mother and daughter share.
Expanding into new territories like music festivals and diverse markets, Resa has found joy and adventure in exploring different venues. Adjusting to changes such as venue relocations due to flooding, she remains optimistic about the opportunities these new settings provide. The meticulous care required to transport and set up her pottery showcases her dedication to her art, ensuring each piece receives the attention it deserves.
Here are some upcoming events where Resa will be featuring her spectacular pottery.
- 48th Annual Fox Valley Folk Music & Storytelling Festival
- September 1 & 2, Geneva, Illinois
- Sugar Creek Arts Festival
- October 5 & 6, Normal, Illinois
- Burgoo Festival
- October 12/13, Utica, Illinois
What truly enriches Resa’s experience at markets is the direct engagement with her customers. The stories shared, whether joyful or sorrowful, underscore the profound connections that art can facilitate. These interactions not only add depth to her work but also highlight the significant impact of local crafts on community and individual lives.
Her involvement in the Women’s Development Network for eight years has fortified her belief in the power of supportive networks, especially among women. This network, alongside others like the Little Black Book, serves as a vital platform for connection and empowerment, reflecting the collaborative spirit that Resa values deeply.
As Resa looks to the future, she is excited about the potential to expand her teaching and share her craft more broadly. While not planning to become a full-time teacher, she is open to hosting more impromptu sessions, particularly for children and teams, emphasizing resilience and creativity.
Her vision extends beyond just pottery; it’s about building a community that embraces creativity and learning as essential elements of life, regardless of age. This philosophy of continuous growth and adaptation not only guides her business but also inspires those around her.
In conversation, Resa shared, “It’s about keeping the mind and spirit active, exploring new ideas, and collaborating with others.” Her plans to possibly take pottery on the road, using traditional methods like the kick wheel, aim to broaden people’s understanding of pottery and its historical roots.
As Geneva embraces artists like Resa, we see the true value of supporting local crafts and the artists behind them. Her story is a testament to the power of starting anew, embracing change, and the profound impact of community support.
Resa’s journey reminds us that creativity knows no bounds and that the local markets are not just places of commerce but of cultural and personal exchange. Here’s to many more creative adventures and meaningful connections in Geneva and beyond!
You can also follow Resa Remus-Stariha @Instagram: little_vermillion_crafts
Stop and visit one of the festivals and enjoy the stories behind each piece of pottery.
Karen Carlson, a dynamic and creative spirit in Geneva, cherishes the city's vibrant life. As a seasoned entrepreneur and licensed massage therapist, Karen intertwines her love for quilting with her passion for writing, contributing to Geneva's cultural tapestry with published works ranging from poetry to children's stories to non-fiction books.
Geneva, the heart of Karen's social and creative endeavors, offers unparalleled convenience and diversity, reflecting in Karen's lifestyle and work. Alongside her husband, Bruce, Karen indulges in local and global adventures, from culinary quests within the city to international mission work.
Engaged deeply in Geneva's community, Karen balances her time between family, creativity, and service, embodying the spirit of the city with every quilt stitch and written word.
this is a wonderful story about this fine artist. If I was closer, I’d be checking her work out for sure!