Charan Sachar, a ceramic artist based in Federal Way, will have his work featured at a number of different outlets in the upcoming weeks.

Currently, his work is being featured at the Nordstrom in downtown Seattle. His piece “Feet of Clay” is an example of the handcrafted ceramic work known as Mojari, from India.

Along with this, Sachar will hold an open studio tour from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. March 31 and April 1. It’s open to everyone interested in watching ceramics being brought to life. The studio is located at 32706 5th Ave. SW in Federal Way. This open studio, along with his work being featured in many places in the weeks to come, is something Sachar hopes can bring the artistic community together in Federal Way and South King County.

“Artists are everywhere and I am sure there are plenty in Federal Way,” Sachar said. “I was very glad to see the sand sculptures national champions in Federal Way, so we are headed in the right direction. I am hoping that by seeing my work and studio, there is more appreciation of handcrafted work and encouragement to other artists in the area to come together and pursue their artistic passions.”

According to Sachar, he was a software engineer until he became a full-time potter in January 2011. He’s been featured in the New York Times, and his techniques were featured in a 2006 telecast of Home and Garden Television’s “That’s Clever.”

Upcoming events featuring his work include the Potters Council Exhibit, which is being held at the Seattle Convention Center from March 28-30. His work will make an appearance at the ArtEast Gallery in Issaquah, and also at the Kirkland Arts Center.

Having to spread himself around so much is part of his reason for trying to raise awareness of the local arts/handcrafts scene, Sachar said.

“I have been in the Federal Way area for 12 years now and see the lack of artist-related events. I have always had the need to go to Seattle, Tacoma or Bellevue to participate in events, such as studio tours or art walks,” Sachar said.

Sachar envisions Federal Way becoming a home to a thriving art scene, he said.

“It would be good to have gallery/gift stores that carry handcrafted work in the Federal Way area. It is unique shops and stores like these which make a community stand out. Every city has the big chain stores, but we can make Federal Way stand out. I hope this would bring the artist community together in Federal Way, so we can have our own art walks in the summer,” Sachar said.

Learn more

To learn more about Sachar’s work, visit www.creativewithclay.com.