About

THE NAME.

Chutbi is an English phonetic translation of "7B" from Cantonese. Apartment 7B [chut-bi] was the home I lived in last in Hong Kong before moving to the United States as a child. It is also the home (a 3-room apartment) in which my mom, her seven other siblings, and their mom all lived & grew up. My grandfather had spent time and effort to prepare this apartment for the family, even while he was sick. He eventually passed away right before the family moved into the home he diligently prepared for them.

Throughout the decades, various family members and family friends have come and gone through the home, which always served as an open place for people to stay and live in when they most needed a place to call home. Even though it was small and not without its problems, it housed so many and exuded an openness, a spirit of generosity and hospitality. Like many homes, there were tough memories within and around it too. But to me, I have always loved its bright purpose and the connection it brought to those of us who lived in it, even if only briefly.

I hope to share homeware that brings joy and sparks community to wherever they may land. May we celebrate generosity, open our homes & tables, practice hospitality, and help build stronger and more beautiful communities around us.

THE MAKER.

Hi. My name is Gabrielle [she/her/hers]. I wear many hats in life, few among which include social worker, movement activist, writing consultant, and (of course) artist. I am dedicated to serving others, fighting for justice, and exploring healing. As an overflow of that life work, my pottery is a practice in embodying concepts of community & generosity, deeply driven by the foundations of my faith.

I love connecting with folks and hearing people's stories, so always feel free to reach out, pottery-related or otherwise!