Kumhar or Kumbhakar caste is one of India's oldest traditional artisan communities, renowned for its expertise in pottery and clay craftsmanship. In West Bengal, members of this community are commonly known as Kumars or Kumhars. For generations, they have been engaged in clay modeling and the production of earthenware used for household purposes, religious rituals, and decorative items.

“The whole building, as it was being built, was made of stone prepared at the quarry, and there was neither hammer nor axe nor any iron tool heard in the temple while it was being built.” — 1 Kings 6:7 The Temple that Solomon built was one of the most magnificent structures in the ancient world. It stood in Jerusalem for nearly 400 years and became the spiritual center of Israel’s worship. Its…

An example of a large traditional front porch design with a roof extension and decking.

Photo Collage by Phil Gennuso Arts Pipes waiting quietly roadside. Cut metal craftedby skilled tradesmen. Ready to fulfill their rolein this spinning worldas we all are called to do.

Where have all the hardware stores gone—dusty, sixty-watt warrens with wood floors, cracked linoleum, poured concrete painted blood red? Where are Eppes, Terry Rosa, Yon’s, Flint—low buildings on South Monroe, Eighth Avenue, Gaines Street with their scent of paint thinner, pesticides, plastic hoses coiled like serpents in a garden paradisal with screws in buckets or bins against a brick wall with…