How We Made A Business Out Of Broken Art | Singapore Hour

Key Concepts

Jesmonite: An eco-resin material similar to concrete, used for crafting.
Chokmah (Hawkmah): An art studio and the Hebrew word for wisdom, emphasizing mindful creation and self-connection.
Broken Made Whole: The core philosophy of the studio, representing individuals as pieced-together beings, finding beauty in imperfection and regeneration.
Therapeutic Art: The belief that art-making is a process of self-discovery, emotional expression, and stress relief.
Balance (Work-Life-Family): A central challenge faced by the owners, Kieran and Shufen, and a theme explored through their art.
Forever Bloom Series: Coasters incorporating preserved flowers, symbolizing the fleeting nature of life and the beauty of capturing moments.

The Philosophy and Practice of Chokmah: A Workshop Experience

Chokmah, pronounced “hawk-mah” (with a silent “C”), is an art studio founded by Kieran and Shufen, built on the principle that individuals are not “broken” but rather “pieced together” – a whole formed from experiences and imperfections. The studio’s name, derived from the Hebrew word for wisdom, reflects its focus on slowing down, making connections with the mind and heart, and embracing one’s individuality. This philosophy is central to their workshops, which aim to provide a safe and non-judgmental space for creative expression.

Jesmonite and the "Broken Made Whole" Workshop

Chokmah primarily utilizes a material called Jesmonite, described as an eco-resin similar to concrete but non-toxic. This material allows for versatile crafting, including coasters, trays, and other moulded items. A signature workshop offered is the “Broken Made Whole Coaster Workshop.” This workshop utilizes pre-broken Jesmonite pieces, or pieces intentionally broken during the session, allowing participants to select fragments and reassemble them into unique coasters.

Shufen explains the intention behind this process: “So why waste it when we can regenerate?” The workshop emphasizes the idea that even discarded or imperfect pieces can be transformed into something beautiful, mirroring the studio’s core philosophy. Participants are encouraged to “go with your heart” and embrace the process, rather than striving for a perfect outcome. The workshop accommodates approximately 22-25 participants, divided into smaller groups to facilitate a more intimate experience.

The Creative Process: From Powder to Coaster

The workshop follows a three-part process:

Piece Selection: Participants choose 2-3 Jesmonite fragments, considering the ridges which will form the base of the coaster.
Jesmonite Mixing: Participants combine Jesmonite powder with liquid on a count of three, creating a workable mixture.
Pouring & Marbling: The mixed Jesmonite is poured into silicone moulds, and participants are encouraged to “shake their wrists” and create a marbling effect. Kieran emphasizes that splashes and imperfections are acceptable, as “the process, the journey is important.” Recycled crushed chips are also added to the mix for texture.

The process is intentionally unstructured, allowing for individual expression. Kieran and Shufen both acknowledge that they teach differently, embracing the authenticity of their individual styles and avoiding a scripted approach.

The "Forever Bloom" Series and Inspiration from Nature

Chokmah also offers a “Forever Bloom” coaster series, which incorporates real, preserved flowers. Shufen explains the concept: “The design concept…is that life is fleeting but we can capture some of the essence, even though it's preserved.” She notes that while the colours will eventually fade, this mirrors the transient nature of life itself. The studio draws significant inspiration from nature, observing colours, light, and the overall feeling evoked by the natural world.

Terrarium Creation: Extending the Creative Experience

Beyond coasters, workshops also include the creation of small terrariums. This involves layering rocks, sand, moss, and succulents within a container, offering another opportunity for mindful creation and connection with nature. Participants are guided through the process of arranging the elements and planting the succulents.

The Owners’ Journey and Balancing Life

Kieran and Shufen share their personal journey, having met 16 years ago and been married for 13. They describe a period of burnout following the pandemic, which led them to establish Chokmah. They openly discuss the challenges of balancing work and family life as new business owners, particularly in the initial stages where they worked seven days a week. Their daughter’s initial reluctance to spend weekends at the studio highlighted the importance of finding quality family time. They emphasize the need for self-kindness and finding balance, mirroring the themes explored in their art.

Art as Therapy and Self-Expression

Throughout the workshop and in their personal reflections, Kieran and Shufen consistently emphasize the therapeutic benefits of art. They believe art provides an outlet for self-expression, free from judgement, and allows individuals to connect with their emotions and experiences. Kieran states, “Art is therapeutic. I think it's important to slow down, maybe be in tune with yourself.” Shufen adds, “Art to me is being able to express how I'm feeling…and being comfortable with what I've made.”

Conclusion

Chokmah is more than just an art studio; it’s a space dedicated to mindful creation, self-discovery, and the celebration of imperfection. Through the use of Jesmonite and the “Broken Made Whole” philosophy, Kieran and Shufen offer workshops that encourage participants to embrace their individuality, connect with their emotions, and find beauty in the process of creation. Their personal journey as business owners and their commitment to balancing work and family life further enrich the studio’s ethos, making Chokmah a haven for artistic expression and personal growth. Kieran’s closing hope – “that wisdom will guide you in your journey of life” – encapsulates the studio’s overarching message.