Umami is an over-all harmonious state. It is where ingredients come together forming a pleasingly consistent whole. It is not just a taste, it is a state of mind. I long to have a sense of umami in my work. By paying close attention to layers of detailing, each piece is unique, complex and satisfyingly balanced. — Katharine Eksuzian Katharine Eksuzian began her ceramic enthrallment at the Minnesota Northern Clay Center. There she was able to discover her passion for clay and established her small business in 2018. Now Eksuzian operates from her home studio in Victoria, MN. As a 2020/22 recipient of a Minnesota State Arts Board Artist Initiative grant, Eksuzian was able to create a solo exhibition at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum and continue both her ceramic and botanical explorations. She received a 2025 MNSAB grant to aid a new exhibit at the MN Arboretum which will include a reflection on their rare botanical/entomology book collection. Also notable among her accomplishments: an exhibition at the American Swedish Institute, beneficiary of a Red Wing Museum CFS award, a multi-time award winner and featured artist at the MN State Fair Fine Arts Gallery, and an American Craft Council/ArtfulHome award.