Tena Zannis Payne

Tena Payne has been a dedicated and accomplished potter since the 1970’s, established for many years as one of the Southeast’s finest raku artists. She has been actively involved in the leadership of the local clay community and is a charter member of the prominent co-operative fine-art gallery, Artists Incorporated. Tena also serves as the alternate Alabama representative to the American Craft Council. In the late ‘90’s Tena was commissioned to create functional restaurant pottery by Birmingham’s renowned chef, Chris Hastings of Hot & Hot Fish Club. This huge success grew to what is now Earthborn Studios, Inc. which has restaurant and retail installations around the country.

In 2003, Tena jumped out of corporate advertising to incorporate Earthborn Studios and pursue the dream of bringing this elemental expression into the world of hospitality on a much broader basis. Now a small band of artists work together to bring this understated elegance to tabletops everywhere.

An exclusive line of pottery by Earthborn Studios, Inc., was placed into service during November 06 at Jia, a fusion-type restaurant located at the Beau Rivage Biloxi, MS. Earlier in  January of 2005, the AAA Five Diamond award winning Bellagio Resort and Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada placed Earthborn pottery on their banquet line consisting of large buffet-ware for the 50,000 square foot banquet hall which includes platters, bowls and other vessels. The second project, commissioned by Chef Martin Heierling, debuted at the grand opening of Sensi, in the newly constructed Spa Tower at the Bellagio. Earthborn pottery is the perfect tabletop companion for this posh, upscale, organic environment.

Earthborn Studios, Inc. is a certified member of the WBENC (Women’s Business Enterprise National Council). The artists of Earthborn Studios infuse every piece of pottery with creativity, their love of life, and the joy of living in a beautiful world.

Earthborn Studios, Inc. Birmingham, Alabama 205-702-7055

             earthbornpottery@yahoo.com

               www.earthbornpottery.net