about

 ……….rosalyn tyge

Bella and Logan welcome you

I attended Pewabic Pottery in Detroit, MI. My initial impression, upon entering the doors and walking those tiled floors for the first time, has always stayed with me. The feel of the handmade tiles underfoot, the sound of shoe touching tile. My passion for clay heightened at that moment. While working with instructor James Powel a whole new level of awareness and understanding of what it took to become a good functional potter was revealed to me. After 3 years of study I returned home to Traverse City, MI, built a studio in 1978 and set out to expand my vision.

In the early 1990’s I attended  Oakland Community College in Royal Oak, MI and worked  with  Dr. Charles Blosser. It was during this time with Dr. Blosser that I reached a turning point in my work as I began my exploration into cone 6 oxidizing glazes.  I began making tiles, tiles, and more tiles.

It was while I was making these, that I also began exploring another passion of mine, woodworking, bringing the two materials together.  I have always had a passion for wood. My grandfather was a cabinetmaker, children were not allowed into his workshop. However, when everyone was out farming I would sneak in and stare at his cabintery, running my hands over the wood and carefully handling the tools that I too would use one day. I was 5 years old and had discovered “paradise.”

 I read everything I could find on the subject and began working with Bob Jackson, who taught a wood working class for women. He fine-tuned my skills and opened the door to the use of exotic woods in my own work.

 I have always been intrigued with mixed media and I began making jewelry that incorporated glass, clay, and metal. My jewelry is multi-dimensional, each layer a refection of and part of the next. Each necklace, earring and pin reflects a tradition of understanding, joy and creativity.

 I have been fortunate to have been able to work with fantastic instructors and incredible materials which transform my thoughts into work that excites me and makes me smile. I am forever grateful  to the  clients and friends that inspire me to continue to create.

 I hope I can put a smile on your face and inspire you to make art a part of your daily life. Please browse my web site and find a unique piece of handmade, heart inspired art that you can call your own.