Crystal Tears Sculpture

Astrid De Deyne, (Belgium, 1978) As a ceramic designer, I am deeply inspired by the interplay of crystalline glazes and their unique ability to capture and reflect light. My work explores the relationship between ceramic materials and mental health, and how the two are intertwined. The fragility and translucency of the ceramic material, combined with the intricate and unpredictable nature of crystalline glazes, serve as a metaphor for the complexity and vulnerability of the human mind. I find inspiration in the unpredictable nature of crystalline glazes, which mirror the complexities of the mind and how it changes over time. Each piece is a reflection of my personal journey with mental health and my experiences with loved ones affected by it. Through my work, I hope to bring attention to the struggles that so many individuals face, and remind others that they are not alone in their journey. In my work, I strive to create pieces that evoke a sense of beauty and wonder, while also raising awareness about the impact of mental health on individuals and families. I believe that ceramics can be a powerful medium for expressing the innermost feelings of the human psyche, and I want my work to create a deeper understanding and connection to this matter. My goal is to remind people the importance of care and understanding towards those affected by mental health and to create a safe space for conversation and reflection. I explore the interaction between the glaze, the form, and light, to create an emotional impact on the viewer, to make them reflect on their own personal experience. I use layering and building up of multiple glazes to create depth and movement on the surface, making the surface reflective and alive, much like the mind. The final outcome of the piece, the unpredictable nature of the crystalline glaze, is a reminder that our mental state can change without warning, and yet it can be beautiful in its own way. In conclusion, my work aims to spark conversation and understanding about mental health and to remind others that they are not alone in their struggles, through creating unique ceramic pieces that evoke a sense of beauty, wonder, and curiosity while raising awareness and understanding of the matter.