Meet Nadia Tarzi-Saccardi | Ceramics Teacher

We had the good fortune of connecting with Nadia Tarzi-Saccardi and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Nadia, can you talk to us a bit about the social impact of your business?
In my journey of teaching ceramics, I have found profound fulfillment in offering not just technical skills, but a sacred space for community and connection. Ceramics, an ancient art form dating back to the earliest human civilizations, holds a timeless beauty and significance that transcends mere craft. By sharing this evolving, yet age-old practice, I create an environment where individuals can explore their creativity, find solace, and build meaningful relationships. The tactile experience of molding clay, an element that has been a cornerstone of human expression for millennia, fosters a deep sense of grounding and belonging. As a healing art, ceramics allows people to process emotions and find peace through the meditative act of creation. My classes are more than just lessons; they are a haven where the timeless art of ceramics bridges past and present, nurturing both individual growth and collective harmony. Additionally, the world community of ceramics enthusiasts is vast and vibrant, encompassing artists from diverse cultures and backgrounds, all united by a shared passion for this ancient art form and this incredible medium that is clay.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Ceramic art has been a part of my life since early childhood. However, as I grew up, I never imagined I could pursue a path in ceramic arts. I struggled as a young adult and tried my hand at various skills, including engaging in theater, costume designing, and massage therapy. I took pride in creating a non-profit organization to protect archaeological sites. Yet, ceramics kept reappearing in my life. I finally fully embraced it after the birth of my children in the late ’90s. Life has a way of moving you in or out of your dreams, and I was fortunate that the tide turned in my favor, allowing me to reconnect with this material I love so much. Just as eclectic as my life, so is my art. I am a potter as well as a hand builder, finding joy in figurative and floral sculpture. Inspired by the macro aspects of nature, I like to create larger versions of shells or flowers. In my figurative work, I relish placing characters in impossible situations, such as emerging from a bottle of champagne or bathing in a cup of latte. When I’m in a more somber mood, I turn to abstract work, relying on hard lines and spikes to express any stormy emotions I might be experiencing. I am disciplined in my execution and demanding of my students, instilling in them a sense of environmental responsibility in community while at the same time encouraging them to express themselves freely. The medium of clay is a teacher in itself. It requires one to be patient, observant, and open, resulting in self-discovery. The biggest lessons I have learned in life are perseverance and honesty, never giving up, and treating others as I would want to be treated.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend came to visit, I would first take them to Sausalito and stroll along the pier. Then, we could enjoy amazing sushi at Sushi Ran or savor some fresh fish at the Spinnaker. Next, we would hit the road for a hike through Tennessee Valley or up Mount Tam. The following day, we would take Highway One, stopping at Muir Beach or Stinson Beach before continuing to Point Reyes Station for coffee. For lunch, we would either stop at the Tomales Bay Hog Island Oyster Company or drive to Bodega at the Spud Point Shack for fantastic clam chowder and a crab cocktail, making sure to arrive before 12 pm to avoid crowds. After a few stops further north along the Bodega coast beaches, we might continue past Jenner to Fort Ross to visit the old Russian fort. We would end our trip at either the Sea Ranch Lodge further north or continue all the way to Mendocino. Either way, we would take a dip in the refreshing waters of the Pacific Ocean and watch the sunset. My family and I love the Pacific Ocean; it is our favorite place to be, no matter the season.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There are many people who deserve credit for my successes. My journey in scientific education and teaching has been profoundly shaped by the mentorship and support of key individuals in my life. My father, Professor Zemaryalai Tarzi, with his deep knowledge and passion for the science of archaeology, academia, and history, served as my first mentor, nurturing my curiosity and guiding me through the complexities of scientific study. His dedication and enthusiasm laid the foundation for my academic pursuits. Susan Hontalas, a remarkable educator, gave me confidence and mentored me in the art of teaching, helping me to develop my skills and inspiring me to create meaningful connections with my students. Throughout all my endeavors, my husband Tony Saccardi has been my unwavering pillar of support, providing encouragement and strength every step of the way. His belief in me and his constant support have enabled me to pursue my passions and achieve my goals. Additionally, my daughters are my daily inspiration, their curiosity and zest for life remind me of the importance of education and the joy of discovery, fueling my commitment to making a difference in the world. I could not omit mentioning my friends, such as artists Jo Clarke, Sara Gaston Huey, Brianna Woodward and Ariana Schneider, who are my rocks every day. Finally, my sister Jessica Kruger and my mother Benedicta Kruger. I am grateful to have an even longer list of amazing people in my life that I would love to share, but I fear there wouldn’t be enough room to mention them all!

Website: https://www.terralindaceramicartists.com/home

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/terralindaceramicartists/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Terra-Linda-Ceramic-Artists/100063665195396/

Image Credits
the two group pictures are my pictures, all black and white pictures as well color pictures of me are the courtesy of
William Wayland Photography
(415) 254-5439
william@williamwaylandphotography.com
williamwaylandphotography.com
Please credit him