about us
Kilter Mercantile is run by ceramic artists Elizabeth Perlman and Wendy Scofield. We met across the table in a wheel throwing class and became fast friends sharing an obsession for porcelain and contemporary design. As members of The Midwest Clay Guild, a studio collective of ceramic artists, we facilitated and chaired successful holiday sales and workshops. We also developed Pop Up By Design, a marketplace for emerging artists. Kilter is an extension of these earlier ventures, where we can draw from a larger pool of makers and reach a broader audience.
Elizabeth Perlman
I first started working in clay as I was raising my own kids and fostering a career as a school social worker. Although I frequently incorporated art into my life and career as a way to facilitate expression and wellness I never thought of myself as an artist. When I left social work, I found I missed the centering effect that art brought me and turned to pottery full time. I find ceramics is a reflection of life and natural progression. Planning and control can only get you so far as you never know what the next day will bring. Often our biggest risks and experiments can yield astounding results or utter failures, but either way it leads to reflection and growth. The ability to begin with a humble lump of clay and turn it into something that brings joy in its everyday use is a journey that I love. I have a passion for hand carving wheel thrown porcelain pieces. I have found that thin walled, balanced shapes are the ideal canvas for carving a woodland forest, floral motifs or geometric patterns. Each piece is unique and reflect the journey from the earth to a vessel that is intended to bring light and joy.
Wendy Scofield
I am a mom (always), ceramic artist (mostly), gatherer (forever), and have also been known as an award winning creative director, graphic designer, and photo stylist.
After receiving my BFA with a double major of photography and graphic design, I moved to NYC and started a long career in the magazine publishing industry. I loved how both of my study disciplines merged in so many aspects of my career. Over time, I found myself continually drawn to the handmade items that I was interacting with and realized that I missed creating in an organic and messy way. In 2016 a geographic change allowed me this opportunity, and I began my ceramic practice.
My work has been included in shows at the 1100 Florence Gallery, Evanston Art Center, Ice House Gallery in addition to appearing in the gift guide of Sunset Magazine. I am a member EvanstonMade and the Midwest Clay Guild in Evanston, IL.