Artist Crafts Adorable Ceramic Sharks to Overcome Her Fear of Them

Ceramic Sharks by Lorien Stern

Just like many other people, California-based artist Lorien Stern is afraid of sharks. However, rather than shudder at the very thought of their sharp teeth and terrifying fins, she creates ceramics that turn these killer fish into super-cute characters. Each colorful clay creation is designed to be used as a decorative wall hanging, bringing cheerful charm to every room.

“I like making them look kinda goofy or in bright colors or smiling as a way to disarm my fear,” Stern explains in a documentary about her work. “That’s a secret theme in my work: finding the harmony in sad and happy things and making scary things approachable.” Each friendly-looking ceramic shark features a giant grin with rounded teeth, pink lips, and cartoonish eyes. Stern’s sharks come in a variety of sizes and fun colors, and some even feature playful polka dots.

In addition to sharks, Stern also creates ceramic ghost vases that allow you to place flowers in multiple holes throughout their bodies. By turning another common fear into charming works of decorative art, Stern shows that there’s nothing to be scared of!

Stern’s work is currently on display at Rare Device in San Francisco until January 14, 2019. If you can’t make it, you can check out more of the artist’s ceramics along with other fun products on her website.

California-based artist Lorien Stern creates ceramics that turn scary sharks into super-cute characters.

Ceramic Sharks by Lorien Stern

Ceramic Sharks by Lorien Stern

Ceramic Sharks by Lorien Stern

Ceramic Sharks by Lorien Stern

Each colorful clay creation is designed to be used as a decorative wall hanging, bringing cheerful charm to every room.

Ceramic Sharks by Lorien Stern

Ceramic Sharks by Lorien Stern

Ceramic Sharks by Lorien Stern

Ceramic Sharks by Lorien Stern

Ceramic Sharks by Lorien Stern

Ceramic Sharks by Lorien Stern

Ceramic Sharks by Lorien Stern

Ceramic Sharks by Lorien Stern

Ceramic Sharks by Lorien Stern

The artist also creates charming ceramic ghosts vases.

Ceramic Sharks by Lorien Stern

Ceramic Sharks by Lorien Stern

Ceramic Sharks by Lorien Stern

Ceramic Sharks by Lorien Stern

Lorien Stern: Website | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest

My Modern Met granted permission to use photos by Lorien Stern.

Related Articles:

Adorably Tiny Animals Fashioned into Ceramic Succulent Planters

Shiba Inu Ceramics Are an Adorable Alternative to Traditional Tableware

Majestic Whale Sharks Seen as Good Luck Charms by Indonesian Fishermen

People Around the World Are Obsessed With This Plush Shark from IKEA

Emma Taggart

Emma Taggart is a Contributing Writer at My Modern Met. Originally from Northern Ireland, she is an artist now based in Berlin. After graduating with a BA in Fashion and Textile Design in 2013, Emma decided to combine her love of art with her passion for writing. Emma has contributed to various art and culture publications, with an aim to promote and share the work of inspiring modern creatives. While she writes every day, she’s also devoted to her own creative outlet—Emma hand-draws illustrations and is currently learning 2D animation.
Become a
My Modern Met Member
As a member, you'll join us in our effort to support the arts.
Become a Member
Explore member benefits

Sponsored Content