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It was a talent that grew
from sheer determination and
practice. That is how Ben
Eisaman describes how he
became a skilled potter. But
now Ben is using his talents
and determination to become
a co-owner with his mother
Betty of their new store,
“The Simple Things” Pottery
and Gifts located at 122
North 4th Street in
Youngwood.
This new shop offers
one-of-a-kind hand thrown
pottery, personalized gift
items, scented candles and
accessories, and country
gifts. Ben can also create
any other items by request.
“I am constantly trying to
build up the stock I have in
the store and to
accommodate the customers’
needs,” said Ben. “I work
with a variety of clay such
as white stoneware,
stoneware, white clay, and
red clay. I can make
whatever the customer
envisions.”
Some original designs
include luminaries, tea
pots, and crocks that are
hand painted. In addition,
Ben works with a local
candle maker who fills small
candle crocks that Ben
creates. The candles can
burn for 80 hours and can be
brought back in to be
refilled.
Ben started with just a
single class while he was in
school at Hempfield Area
High School by instructor Ed
Lasko. He immediately became
intrigued with pottery. Then
he decided to take another
class at Carnegie Mellon
University. Afterwards he
was on his way to making
pottery a part of his
career. Currently, Ben is
studying Liberal Arts at
Westmoreland County
Community College so he can
develop his business
further. He hopes to
eventually teach pottery
classes to others. |
