Every year around this time, OK, lets be honest, EVERY time of year, I find myself reaching for the same cozy rituals: warm mugs, soft blankets, and pulling out all the little treasures I’ve collected for my holiday decorations. And honestly? One of my favorite parts of the winter season is seeing how something small, like a single ornament, can spark a memory or bring a sense of calm and joy.
That’s what inspired me to create this black bear ceramic holiday ornament. It’s part of my nature-inspired ornament collection over at Lake & River Studio, and it’s based on one of my original paintings. A strong, peaceful black bear set against an abstract wash of aqua blue and forest green. I also made a similar one with a peachy orange background.
Why I Painted This
As an artist, I find myself constantly pulled toward wild places and quiet moments. The black bear has always been a symbol of calm strength to me. They’re powerful but not aggressive, solitary but grounded. They seem to move through the forest with such presence. I live in Minnesota, so those of us who frequent the more rural areas run into black bear rather often. Or maybe that is just me. One time, When I was driving over to northern Wisconsin, a black bear ran out in front of my car when I was driving through the middle of town. It took me by surprise! You don’t really expect the, to just be wandering by you while pumping gas at Kwik Trip.
When I created the original painting for this design, I was thinking about early morning light on snowy trees, and that peaceful hush that only seems to happen in the woods after a fresh snowfall. I wanted the background to reflect that atmosphere. The cool tones, a little bit abstract, like the memory of a winter hike. I was not admittedly, thinking about bear hanging out at Kwik Trip. That is just less……romantic?
This round ceramic ornament is made from 100% ceramic and printed with a high-quality reproduction of my original artwork. The finish is glossy and smooth, and I include a gold-colored string, so it’s ready to hang on your tree the moment it arrives.
Some quick details:
- 2.76″ (7 cm) across – a nice size that stands out without being too heavy
- 0.125″ (3 mm) thick
- Glossy surface with a white ceramic back
- Lightweight but sturdy—great for real or artificial trees
Whether you hang it near twinkle lights or nestle it among branches, it catches the light beautifully and adds that peaceful, handmade touch.
This piece is part of a growing collection of holiday ornaments I’ve been working on over the past few years. Each one is printed from a hand-painted design, often inspired by forest animals, mountain lakes, or the play of color in the sky during different seasons.
If you’re someone who loves:
- Woodland Christmas themes
- Rustic, cozy cabin vibes
- Handmade holiday décor
- Or just want to add a meaningful ornament to your tree…
Then I think you’ll connect with this one.
You can find it right here:
Black Bear Ceramic Ornament on Etsy
Thanks for Supporting Handmade
Every time someone chooses one of my ornaments or prints, it truly means the world to me. You’re not just buying an item. You’re supporting a small studio, a real person, and a whole lot of creative heart.
So thank you, and I hope this little black bear brings a little magic and wild beauty to your holiday season.
With warmth,
Stephanie Rowan
Artist + Creator at Lake & River Studio
Favorite Art Supplies for Paintings
