“Surrey Through My Lens” proudly shares authentic photo essays that showcase what it is really like to live in and visit our community from a range of perspectives. Sherrin Kovach is the owner of Blue Poppy Pottery in Surrey. Drawing inspiration from the oceans, forests, and mountains that surround her, Sherrin draws on a variety of techniques to hand-craft each piece. No two are the same and each is as beautiful as it is functional!
“I moved to South Surrey with my husband in 2000. We were looking for a neighbourhood with a village feel, small independent shops, entertainment, parks and the ocean within a 15 minute walk”
Surrey is home to a thriving artistic community. Numerous galleries, museums, artisan studios, performing arts venues and public art installations make exploring Arts & Culture in Surrey easy.
“Blue Poppy is the result of my new love affair with clay. I am a Fine Arts graduate with a focus on printmaking. Over the years I’ve created art using many different mediums. It’d been a while since I had been in a studio working with other artists, so I thought I would try something new: pottery. I’ve tried many techniques and methods of pottery making and enjoy them all but I have landed on sgraffito as my main way to decorate pots. It simply means to scratch. This method allows me to paint, draw and carve — all skills I had before clay. I feel the most successful when I’ve created a piece of pottery that is art. Whether it is a special wedding gift or someone’s favourite mug. Everyone should have a little original art in their life.”
“The support and encouragement I have received from the clay community, the arts community and wonderful collectors in Surrey has been essential. Semiahmoo Arts, Semiahmoo Potters Society and the South Rock Art Tour have all been key supporters to help me grow as an artist and maker.”
Surrey’s art scene is thriving! Enjoy beautiful public art citywide, and explore numerous studios and galleries featuring local talent. Find inspiration at a few of our favourite art galleries and studios.
“I live and work in Surrey so I am surrounded by beautiful places to walk. Every morning I start with a walk to the sea, the bay, the Semiahmoo Heritage Trail forest, Redwood Park or simply down the street through a park. My work is heavily influenced by the mountains, the ocean, and my garden, and I have all of that in Surrey.”
“I have a series called “Salish Sea” which is an homage to the water right near my home. Right now, these pieces are my favourite to create.”
Looking for a unique made-in-Surrey gift idea? Check out Sherrin’s latest creations on Blue Poppy Pottery’s Instagram. And if you want even more inspiration, Surrey’s artisans and makers have you covered. Skip the big box stores and shop locally with our Made in Surrey gift guide!
“I am happiest when I am outdoors and Surrey has the most beautiful places to inspire me and my work. I hope people see that in my designs.”
Each year Blue Poppy Pottery provides clay doves for the Peace Arch Hospice’s Celebration of Life Fundraiser. Proceeds from the event the fund the Hospice’s work as they continue to provide important and impactful support for people in our community.
Check out the other lenses on Surrey’s six neighbourhoods, major events and other small businesses around the city. Click the link below to learn more about the project and uncover new photo essays from all across Surrey.