Amanda Ryznar

After graduating with a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Slippery Rock University, Amanda Ryznar spent several years working for production potteries in Vermont. In 2005 she made the leap, opening her own pottery studio.

Working in bright colors on white porcelain, Amanda's designs are clearly inspired by nature. More subtle are the influences of different eras, from the Arts and Craft movement to the Mod style. Recent additions include a selection of tropical motifs. The pieces are thrown on the wheel, either from white stoneware or porcelain. Any trimming is done, and attachments such as handles made, when the piece is "leather-hard". The colors are applied at this stage. When the color drys a little, Amanda carves away to reveal the clay underneath. The piece is fired to 1800 degrees Fahrenheit, then coated in a clear glaze and fired again to 2380 degrees.

"I believe that life is to be enjoyed and that the objects we bring into our homes and use everyday should reflect that joy in being."

Click here to see our selection of Amanda's work.