Artist creates functional pottery using human remains

SANTA FE, N.M., Nov. 9 (UPI) -- New Mexico-based artist Justin Crowe's business, Chronicle Cremation Designs, creates "unique custom memorial objects" -- like functional dinnerware -- out of human remains.

What started out as a personal project following the death of a loved one has blossomed into a successful enterprise, offering a variety of usable memorial products coated in a "custom ash glaze."

"Creating objects that tell stories is my passion, Crowe said. "The inspiration for Chronicle came following a death which lead to a period of personal growth. Instead of observing an urn or photograph on a shelf, I wanted a way to interact with memories on a daily basis. Our process was born out of a desire to keep those who've lived before us remembered in daily life."

Crowe described his custom pieces as "interactive."

"They let you integrate the memories into everyday life, and use them, interact with them, and see them on an everyday basis," Crowe said.

Crowe creates bowls, mugs, vases, and even jewelry coated in the ash glaze.