S3E5. Clay and Thread with Pam Totah

February 13, 2025 · 45 min

PAM IS A PALESTINIAN CERAMIC TATREEZ ARTIST AND ACTIVIST (@totahstudio). Pam shares how tatreez connects her to Palestinian heritage, preserving stories and fostering community, especially in the diaspora. She reflects on the joys and challenges of learning tatreez, from selecting patterns to its meditative nature.

The conversation explores tatreez in modern contexts, from fashion to activism, and its resilience in preserving identity. Pam emphasizes the power of creating with and for your people and encourages those curious about blending tatreez with other mediums to take the first step and experiment.

Check out her work and order a piece on her website!

You’ll hear about:

>> 1:20: Pam’s connection to Palestine

>> 3:45: Palestinian identity growing up in the Bay Area

>> 6:58: Tatreez origin story and translating it to pottery

>> 14:25: How to part with your art

>> 18:21: Pam’s tatreez style with ceramics

>> 22:12: Impact of the Gaza genocide

>> 29:15: Building with and for the Palestinian people

>> 32:30: Stocking stores and collaborating with Mom

>> 36:53: Words of wisdom on exploring incorporating tatreez in other art mediums

>> 39:38: Tatreez life lessons

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