Elaine Zimmer was born and raised in Alberta, living a gypsy life following the pipelines her father worked on. The grandmother of 2, mother of 3, wife of 1, she currently lives in Medicine Hat. First working in a variety of ceramic fields in the 1980s and 90s, she received a Bachelor of Fine Arts with Distinction from the Alberta College of Art and Design in 2000. Elaine’s art practice includes curatorial work, community work, teaching, and studio play.

Artist Statement

Tiny children’s tea sets appeal to the little girl in me. I am delighted, for a moment, disarmed of all my grownup-ness. My inner child shines through. I remember pouring, spooning, stirring, sipping. I share in the tea party, memories of tiny tea cups, cookies and too much sugar. This recent work is the culmination of years of playing with clay, mixed with memories of ‘playing’ tea, as well as remembering how to play … with my grandchildren. A lot of playing! Meticulous, concerned, busy playing. Pass the sugar, sugar.

December 2022 –  February 2023