Some collecting stories begin with chance discoveries. Cindy Kirven’s began with a midnight blue tile that jumped out at her at the LA Art Show decades ago.
“The tile was midnight blue with a cream/white cow and moon. There was no edge like a frame,” Cindy recalls. “It was simple and looked just like what you would see looking up at the moon in the sky. It obviously references the comfort of the childhood nursery rhyme so it called to me to be displayed in the bedroom. A peaceful and sweet image to see getting ready to go to sleep at any age.”
The Over the Moon Tile found its perfect home “tucked into a space on a narrow wall between a closet door and the master bedroom entrance. It was a little treasure.”
Having studied ceramics in college with renowned potter Paul Soldner and returning to the craft after retirement, Cindy brings a maker’s appreciation to her collecting. She later added the retired Hickory Dickory Tile, building a small collection of nursery rhyme memories.
“I looked for the tiles, thinking that if they could survive the kiln, they might survive the fire,” she shares with the practical wisdom of someone who understands clay and flame. “They were on the bedroom wall. No luck. Only ashes.”
What followed reveals remarkable resilience. Cindy had ordered a Craftsman Ginkgo Mug on January 4th. Three days later, her home was gone.
“The fire was on January 7. I was able to change the delivery address—so it was one of the first things I received post fire. You cannot imagine what it is like to have nothing but the few things you pack in the car assuming you will be back in 3 days (evacuation only was assumed). And the dog, two cats and their food was, of course, most important and took up half the car. So the Ginkgo Mug is my favorite.”
That first mug became an anchor.
“I already have 3 new mugs for myself post fire and one is on the way. They are comfort pieces to hold, view and enjoy with warm cappuccino. Fully aware of the importance of honoring what I love as healing from trauma.”
Even in loss, Cindy continues spreading the joy of handmade pottery, gifting her daughter and son-in-law a retired Craftsman Bud Bowl for their 1910 Craftsman bungalow. “Because they have a 1910 craftsman bungalow, it is a perfect display piece. And because it is one of the ‘essential’ series, it can also be used.”
From Santa Monica, where she’s staying during rebuilding, Cindy looks forward. “My heart hurts thinking of treasures lost like the Ephraim tiles. But look forward to continuing the hunt for new pieces.”
Sometimes the most meaningful collections are the ones we build twice.
Cindy, thank you so much for connecting with us and sharing your story. Your strength inspires us, and we’re honored to be part of your fresh start.
