Lyn Craig

Lyn is a ceramist and painter who lives in rural southwest Washington. Subject matter is based on a deep connection to nature, inspired by the rolling prairie, nearby old-growth forests, and stunning mountain views from her home.

I love the fearless abandon of wild plants and the colors and patterns of the forest - from the emerald ecosystem underfoot to the towering canopy above. Such places inspire creativity, bringing us closer to the deepest sense of self and place

A painting is finished when it emits spirited energy. A bowl is complete when the shape is no longer pliant and a freehand design feels plentiful. A fanciful clay bird is finished when it becomes warm, its heartbeat felt in the hand.

The visible hand of the artist connects the viewer to the creative process.

A self-taught artist, Lyn spent parts of long ago childhood summers on the shores of Georgian Bay in rural Ontario, where a love of nature took hold. Connection with local Indigenous people in this area and their rich knowledge of the land and water enthralled her.

When her children were young she owned an herb farm. As an older adult, extended stays at her remote Costa Rica home in the jungled mountains furthered her love of the untamed natural world and the uses of native plants. As a grant writer serving Indian Tribes over the past 15 years, Lyn has been further enriched from stories shared with her regarding seed scattering, root digging, and meaningful harvests.

Immersion in other cultures has deeply impacted her work as well. Colors, patterns, and experiences during international travels inform her paintings, recalling flower-filled fields, stone-walled villages, marbled archways, and bustling markets.

Visitors are welcome at the studio by appointment - located outside Toledo, Washington just east of I-5 near the route to Mt. St. Helens.

Lyn is a member of ARTrails of SW Washington and of the Gallery 505 Cooperative. Her works can be seen at the Gallery 505 in Toledo and the BCJ Gallery in Morton, Washington.