Ian Wieczorek is a ceramic artist based in Oregon. He has a studio at Heartfire Sanctuary and is participating in the development and growth of the sanctuary.

I start my pieces by using thick coils of clay to create simple cylinders. By making grand gestures, I’m able to manipulate the cylinder into a more asymmetric shape. The shapes are bold, undulating, and curvaceous. I don’t build off of a blueprint; instead, I create from an intuitive mindset. Pulling from my experience to make informed decisions during the process. Spending time texturizing the surface allows for my brain to shut off and my heart takes control. I’m interested in the adventure that is brought on by the tactile nature of ceramics. The final pieces I make are parts of the person I aspire to be.