Keepers find authenticity with Dani

As an artist and maker at Be My Keeper, Dani Salvo is determined to provide the “keepers” of her work with pieces that are authentic and not mass produced.

“I love my studio, it’s filled with an eclectic selection of sculptural and functional works with the addition of my student’s work,” Dani said.

“It’s a space that takes me away from the regular or mundane and I can’t believe it’s my full-time job. I see my ceramic works as the culmination of rich travel and cultural experiences, love of family, figurative form and stories that surround and inspire me.

“I am driven to explore finishes by drawing and painting on my work. I find it satisfying and true as I try to steer clear of the mainstream.”

Dani provides three ceramics classes per week, with some students still attending the classes after nearly six years.

“I think they are here to stay. Classes are now consistently booked out and I have a waitlist for 2018,” she said.

The classes include learning techniques such as hand building, wheel work, sculpture and surface decoration. Students can explore a range of methods or focus on their own particular interests.

Sessions are blended to capitalise on both functional and non-functional projects. Students can connect with likeminded creatives, keeping it as informal or structured as they like.

“I particularly love seeing the friendships that are cultivated during these sessions, especially when people are so positively engaged,” Dani said.

Be My Keeper studio is located at 13-15 Seawind Place, Ocean Grove.