About

um studio is an experiment in function, process and collaboration directed by me, Samantha Topol. It sprung initially from the simple beauty of a candlestick and the humble ritual of lighting a taper candle each night with my partner at dinner—these elements combined into a space and experience I wanted to share with other people. I started to design and seek out forms that might introduce this spaciousness into other people’s homes and daily routines, and through this, began to develop a vocabulary of domestic objects that can be interacted with every day, whether through the visual sightlines in your living space, or actively touching something in the rhythms that make up your days. In both the ceramic objects I originate and the projects made in collaboration with others, Umbrella Mercantile strives to bring a consideration that is not overly precious into these moments of living.

The cornerstone of um studio is a line of ceramics pieces designed and produced in my studio based in rural Connecticut. Combining wheel thrown and hand-building techniques, I’m interested in making functional objects that often have some intervention into their expected form, giving them a more sculpted, distinctive presence without detracting from their purpose and usefulness. I have a long but non-institutional connection to ceramics, and draw on years working adjacent to both art and design as a writer, editor, and curator. UM ceramics play with the harmony of use and rupture, and above all believe in the power of things made by hand to transmit a particular energy into our lives and homes, allowing us to consider our visual horizons with more openness, beauty, and interest.

All glazes are made with careful attention towards balanced chemistry for lasting food safety.

One key measure of success for Umbrella Mercantile is to grow, change shape and adapt over time, in response to the interests of our team, collaborators, and clients.