ANJA BARTELS

Ceramic artist Anja Bartels creates vibrant porcelain vessels inspired by marine life, oceanic motifs and memories of her childhood on the North Sea.

"Bridging traditional fine porcelain with new design ideas is the primary focus of my work: my pots are edgy yet elegant," Bartels says. "Classic, simple shapes allow me to apply playful designs, and I aspire to have an element of surprise in my work. The painting and carving process allows me to be creative and spontaneous."

Bartels completed a traditional three year apprenticeship with a master potter and received her journeyman ceramics degree from the German chamber of Trade Crafts. She is now an artist in residence at the Odyssey Center for the Ceramic Arts in Asheville, North Carolina,