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Yvonne Tornatta,
Pottery by Yvonne
Bend, Oregon
Email: Potterybyyvonne@gmail.com
Website: https://www.potterybyyvonne.com/
Artist Statement:
I am a functional potter working in a range of clays and a variety of glazes. Although I do not stick to the traditional “body of work,” all of my pieces coordinate with each other. I draw inspiration from nature and the colors that surround me.
Studio Description:My studio is located on a farm just outside of Bend, OR city limits. It is a refurbished pole barn and is used as my studio as well as a teaching facility for community classes and workshops.
What type of clay do you use? Porcelain, chocolate stoneware, and red stoneware
What temperature do you fire to? Cone 6
What is your primary forming method? Wheel thrown pottery
What is your favorite surface treatment? Sgraffito and monoprinting
Do you make any of your own tools? Yes, I make rounders for my cups and shaping tools.
What one word would you use to describe your work? Eclectic
What is your favorite thing about your studio? It is organized and looks out at the Three Sisters
What is the one thing in your studio you can’t live without? My wheel
What are your top three studio wishes? I would like to have a pug mill and a dedicated glaze room.
What’s on your current reading list? Leonardo Da Vinci by Walter Isaacson
How do you save money on materials and supplies? Buy in bulk and buy from local sellers
How do you recharge creatively? I like to hike and SUP in the beauty of Bend, OR
Do you have any DIY tips for studio efficiency? Stay organized, and stay clean.
What challenges have you given yourself to overcome? Do something that scares me every year.
What did you first piece look like? It was a small mug with a misshapen handle but the surface was printed with a tomato leaf painted with underglazes.
What ceramic superpower would you have and why? To throw large and tall.
Who is your ceramic art mentor and why? Nancy Trezza - Taught me to be inquisitive and always learning
What is your studio playlist? The Avette Brothers, Neil Young, The Dead South
Why do you create art? I create pottery because it is the ultimate 3 D surface and has endless opportunity to express myself.
What is your best studio tip? Keep your studio clean and dust free, wear a mask when you mix glaze.
If you could change one property of clay, what would it be? That it would magically come off of me when I leave the studio.
