About
Hannun, a creative artist of Chinese heritage with an Asian-Caribbean background, has led a life that beautifully intertwines the essence of Eastern and Western cultures. Growing up in a world where traditional Chinese customs harmoniously coexisted with modern first-world living rituals, she was deeply influenced by this rich cultural tapestry.
From the beginning of her artistic journey, Hannun's work has revolved around the process of crafting objects, showcasing her technical prowess, profound understanding of materials, and mastery of the craft. Each piece she creates serves as a stepping stone, allowing her to explore new materials, innovative designs, and intriguing forms. Her dedication to pushing the boundaries of her creativity is evident in her constant pursuit of artistic growth.
Hannun's path has never been linear; it has been a journey filled with complexities and intricacies. Yet, she faces these challenges with unwavering determination, seeking mindfulness and presence with every step of her artistic process. These qualities form the foundation of all her creations, imbuing them with a unique sense of purpose and depth.
Her artistic career began with creating paper-thin porcelain forms, where she meticulously paid attention to lines, details, and the intricacies of the creative process. She explored the interplay between strength and fragility and their luminescence in these delicate vessels. These vessels were designed for the rituals of daily life, serving as containers for food, beverages, flowers, and light.
Over time, Hannun's artistry evolved in tandem with her environment and the different stages of her life. Currently, her focus has shifted towards crafting functional and accessible wares that are less precious but carry a more profound sense of intimacy. Throughout her artistic journey, she never shies away from exploring new possibilities, continually seeking fresh avenues of creative expression.
Her pieces now embody simple yet charismatic forms adorned with surfaces that evoke emotions and contemplation. Through her pottery, Hannun reflects on the significance of our everyday domestic experiences, exploring the themes of nature and nurture, connection and disconnection, balance and imbalance. In this exploration, she finds poetry within the creative process, turning everyday objects into meaningful and thought-provoking artifacts.
Hannun's life and work are a testament to the power of cultural fusion and the endless possibilities that arise when diverse influences converge. Her art speaks to her personal journey and resonates with audiences, inviting them to see beauty and meaning in the mundane aspects of life.
TEACHING & COMMUNITY:
The essence of clay lies in the material quality itself and the shared joy of creating ceramics together.
Teaching hand-building and wheel-throwing to keen learners has given me a chance to witness the boundless potential and growth in my students, and it's been an absolute delight to see their eyes light up as they discover the wonders of clay. It's like experiencing that 'beginner's mind' feeling again with each new student I meet! I've poured my renewed enthusiasm into my creations, and I'm delighted that my works now exude more joy and vitality than ever!
Currently, I'm blessed to be a part of the incredible teams at the JCC and the Gardiner Museum in Toronto, where I get to share my passion and knowledge with enthusiastic learners like you!
I have plans to open my own teaching studio soon and will keep you posted on the progress in real-time. The prospect of welcoming new students to this vibrant community fills my heart with happiness.