Jane Sheppard – funerary urns

Just recently a friend of mine mentioned that he worked with a ceramic artist who is also a celebrant and interfaith minister, Jane Sheppard. He thought I might like to see her work, especially her funerary urns.

I had a look and I was really struck by some of her designs. They are quite distinctive and very different from the usual urns and caskets that are available.

Each urn is individually made in the same way as Jane’s other work – hand built using the ancient technique of coiling.  This is a slow, contemplative and meditative method. There are parallels between coiling and ceremony and this allows Jane to create a sense of sacred space within.

I think it’s very important as a celebrant, to be able to point people in the direction of alternatives to the usual coffins and urns. Of course it can be difficult when planning a funeral to consider these alternatives simply due to the lack of time. But the process of deciding on final ceremonies for interment of ashes is usually more relaxed and it gives people more opportunity to be creative with their choices. 

You can find out more about Jane’s work here. (Also Facebook and Instagram.)

Thank you Jane for allowing me to showcase your work.

Michael Hannah, Dundee 28 September 2020