Ardmore, Pa — Dan Hoffman has worked with ceramics for most of his life. When his aunt passed away, he found a way to incorporate her ashes into a ceramic work of art, creating a meaningful memorial for his family. Years later, after pursuing a different career, he revisited the idea of ceramic memorials. Two years ago, he launched his business, Ahava Memorials. “Ahava” means love in Hebrew.<\/p>\n
Hoffman spent a year perfecting a glaze formula to incorporate human remains. When remain are added it creates a unique finish for every piece. He is currently the only artist doing this specific technique. There are six different color recipes and a variety of ceramic pieces to choose from, and Hoffman can also create custom pieces to memorialize a loved one.<\/p>\n
Hoffman says it offers a unique alternative for families who choose cremation. “It looks like a work of art in your home versus, you know, the typical box that you get,” he says.<\/p>\n