Inspired Hands

Posted on February 28, 2014

Among the peaceful landscape of Saint Meinrad Archabbey sits a quaint bright red building. Inside, Br. Martin spends his day crafting inspired creations that will be sold at the property’s gift shop. In his quiet workspace, there is a decorative plate hanging on the wall. It’s just one example of his artistry and the care which goes into his pieces. For this piece, the time-consuming process begins with a design, then each piece is carved, painted, and glazed by hand. Br. Martin will create 500 pieces of this one pattern, among all of the other items to which he lends his creativity. “I try to make items that range anywhere from $5 to $500,” Br. Martin allows. Those items include tiles, pottery, and everyday household pieces. “I make a lot of bowls, plates, jars, and containers,” he says of his favorite functional designs available at the Saint Meinrad Archabbey Gift Shop. While his designs all vary in color, structure, and purpose, one notion remains intact throughout Br. Martin’s creative process. “I think of those who want to take home a piece of St. Meinrad,” he says beaming with pride.