Our Company
Smallcraft is collaborative workshop and studio run primarily by Sowgand Nabipour, Kuimars Kamalinia, and Aron Hill. We are professional artists and craftspeople who have experience in ceramics, painting, sculpture, teaching, and arts administration. Small Craft works with other artists and crafts people depending on the specific needs of the project or workshop. We believe in the therapeutic nature of the arts and desire to build culture through education and collaboration.
We are based out of Calgary AB, Canada and have the ability to travel and do mobile workshops and creative initiatives.
Sowgand Nabipour
Sowgand Nabipour is an accomplished Pottery Instructor and artist with extensive experience spanning Iran, Turkey, Norway, and Canada. Holding a Bachelor's degree from Iran and a Pottery Instructor’s License from The Open Technical and Vocational Institute in Tehran, she combines formal education with a diverse practical background in ceramics and mixed media art. Currently, Sowgand Nabipour teaches at Fired Clay Pottery Studio and Luna Art Studio in Calgary, Canada, where she has been a key figure since 2021. Her expertise extends beyond traditional pottery to include mixed media art, reflecting her innovative approach and adaptability in various artistic disciplines. Her career includes notable roles such as assisting in the renovation and interior design of a coffee shop project in Calgary and serving as a Potter and Ceramic Painter at Embela Ceramic Workshop in Oslo, Norway. She has also contributed to the field as an Art Teacher Assistant in Oslo and as a Potter and Ceramic Painter with Firçe Ceramic Company in Nevşehir, Turkey. In her early career, Sowgand Nabipour worked as a Potter and Pottery Instructor in Tehran, Iran, where she developed her foundational skills and passion for teaching. Her artistic contributions have been showcased in collective exhibitions in Tehran and through specialized wall relief art projects.
For a glimpse of her work and artistic journey, visit @so-qartstudio.Kiumars Kamalinia
Kiumars Kamalinia
With a multifaceted career spanning over three decades and across multiple continents, Kamalinia is a distinguished professional whose expertise spans theatre, visual arts, painting, sculpting and education. Beginning his career as a Theatre Actor in Tehran, Iran (1984-1992), Kiumars Kamalinia quickly expanded his roles within the theatre, becoming a Theatre Director Assistant (1987-1988) and later directing four plays, including two best-sellers, from 1988 to 1992 as a graduated MA Visual Art Director. Transitioning into a diverse career, they took on the role of Director stepping into the world of media as a Director of a documentary for NHK of Japan in 2000. In 2004, Kiumars Kamalinia embraced the realm of music videos and continued his creative journey as a Sculptor, working in Tehran and Oslo and Calgary from 2000 to 2024 respectively. Meanwhile he became a drama teacher in Seda-Sima art school and Sura university in Tehran. He also contributed significantly to education where he also engaged in ceramic painting in Turkey. Returning to the theatre scene, Kiumars Kamalinia gained further experience in Oslo Nye Teater (2011-2013) and offered his design and renovation skills in Calgary, Canada. He also works as potter, sculptor and painter presenting his pieces in several exhibitions. His wall relief art is one of his most significant works. A versatile and creative professional, continues to combine his rich background in the arts and education with a passion for innovative design and cultural exchange.
Aron Hill
Aron Hill as an artist, an educator, and a writer added foster parent to their biography when their family recently fostered a baby girl. It was a life-changing event that has become reflected in the work. Colour, and strong shapes are now enhanced by the addition of collage. Embroidery, sewing, and gluing representing themes of a domestic life, labour, care and community—even historical colonialism have been woven into this compelling visual narrative.
Please contact us with any questions.