Functional Art

by Brit Flanigan

South Tahoe potter Karen Whittingham creates a wide array of utilitarian pottery from vases and rice bowls, sake sets and sushi platters (like the one seen here). Found at Tahoe Country, (530) 544-6600.

These ceramic sinks by artist Alanna Hughes can be purchased through her Truckee gallery, Riverside Studios, (530) 320-1799.

Tahoe Country in South Tahoe's Heavenly Village is brimming with useful art. Wind chimes ($25-$112) are crafted by longtime local Amber Jones using copper, vintage jewelry and Austrian crystals. These wood bowls ($95-$175) are sculpted by South Tahoe furniture maker Norm Martin. Tahoe Country, (530) 544-6600.

These handmade doorbells by Paul Staurach ($32) offer an inviting way to greet guests. Found at Maison Rustique in Tahoe City and South Lake Tahoe, (530) 581-2385.

Maison Rustique in Tahoe City and South Lake Tahoe offers a wide variety of decorative switch plate covers designed and handmade by an array of artists ($14-$48).

Jazz up your home or office with funky finds like these felted clocks ($35-$65) from La Bussola in Reno's historic Riverwalk District. Or do your dirty work in style with these jewel-handled brooms ($45) also from La Bussola, (775) 348-8858.