On September 27, 2005, internationally acclaimed potter and raku master Steven Branfman lost his 23-year-old son, Jared, to brain cancer. A week after Jared’s death, Steven went into his studio, took some clay, and made a chawan, a Japanese-style tea bowl. Each day for one year, he made one chawan – they were the only pots he made. Steven’s daily chawan made at his wheel was his own personal kaddish.

For nine years, these 365 bowls sat unfinished on shelves in Steven’s studio. One day, in the ninth year, he decided to glaze and fire these bowls, bringing them to life with color and sheen.

The film is a potent and moving journey through the universal experience of loss, mourning and rebuilding a life. Steven and Jen will be joining us for a post film discussion.

A small selection of remaining chawan will be available for you to hold and touch (and purchase, if you wish - all proceeds go toward cancer fighting organizations).

This film was directed by our own CDT member and Past President Jen Kaplan. Steve and Jen will be joining us for a film screening and discussion.

Learn more about the film here: https://www.afatherskaddish.com/.

Please register below.

Please note in your registration whether you prefer to attend in person or via Zoom.