Spotlight on Maker: Kristin Andreassen

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Which artistic medium do you specialize in, Kristin?

I’ve devoted a significant part of my life to working with clay. For me, it’s a collaborative effort with the material itself, a mutual challenge where I push the clay to excel, and it, in turn, challenges me. Porcelain, with its intricate details and vivid colors, is my chosen medium, but it’s a demanding material that never allows complacency.

What captivates you about the external appearance of your pieces?

The surface has perpetually intrigued humanity, embodying qualities that can be seductive, treacherous, cold, warm, or varied in character. Beneath the surface, there are processes creating tensions, offering a unique window into what lies beyond. Exploring the potential for understanding the unseen through surface study and interpreting these experiences fascinates me. My focus on materials and techniques leads me to experiment continuously, applying various surfaces to both abstract forms and human figures, leaving the interpretation of hidden messages open to the viewer.

What motivates your commitment to this craft?

Nature, particularly close examinations of plants and creatures, is a profound source of inspiration. Additionally, witnessing skilled artisans at work is compelling, but the ultimate inspiration arises when I’m alone, immersing myself in the rhythm of a seamless creative process.

How do you initiate your creative journey?

I kickstart a productive creative process by meticulously arranging my workspace and gathering my materials.

Could you depict your workspace and identify indispensable tools?

Over the years, I’ve inhabited various workspaces, always preferring the solitude that allows time to seemingly stand still during my work. Creating an ideal environment involves meticulous organization. Essential tools in my craft include the potter’s wheel, sculpting tools, brushes, and, of course, the fundamental clay. Each tool contributes to the intricate dance between myself and the clay, shaping the narrative of my artistic expression.