We make Portland awesome: Vitreous Wares

"We make Portland awesome" is a weekly series. I’m interested building our community of artists by helping us all find out more about each other.

This week: Crystal of Vitreous Wares

 

 

Who are you?

I am Crystal Van Wyk, a third generation Oregonian, PNCA sculpture grad, and all around maker.

What do you make?
I make ceramics by either hand building with slabs or slip casting from originals I make in my studio. A lot of my work is functional and I try to keep it simple because what I really want is for it to enhance what you’re doing. I’m steering myself towards making more of what I call ceramic editions in 2013.

Besides making things, what do you do?
I work a couple days a week as a freelance Photoshop person. That usually means working on animations or retouching for the local apparel companies.

What inspires you?
I started my ceramics business out of my own need for a beautiful fruit bowl to replace my ugly wire basket. Other than making things I want but can’t find, I would say cooking and food are high on the list. I also love perspective diagrams, light, and all the weather elements.

Where can your work be found?
In Oregon I have work at Crafty Wonderland and Imogen Gallery. Most of the other places I have work at are out of state. The biggest selection is always in my Etsy shop.

What do you love about Portland?
Spring and Summer in Portland are always beautiful. I love returning home to Portland and seeing how lush the city is in the greener months. I’ve never seen anything quite like it. The food is phenomenal and the amount of great things to do outdoors is hard to keep up with.