This short documentary explores the artistry of Angela Venarchik, a Chicago-based ceramicist whose work captures the essence of her Midwestern surroundings. Filmed on Lake Michigan and in her studio, the piece intimately follows her creative process, revealing how the vast, open landscapes of the Prairie State and the Great Lakes shape her minimal, functional designs.

With a palette inspired by golden grasses, stormy skies, and the deep blues of the lake, each of Angela’s handmade ceramics carries a profound sense of place. Through quiet, meditative visuals and thoughtful storytelling, the film highlights not just her craftsmanship, but the deeper connection between art, environment, and identity.

Selected as the 2019 Documentary Winner, A Midwest Palette is a celebration of design, material, and the timeless beauty of handmade ceramics.

A Midwestern Palette: Angela Venarchik