In the serene landscape along the IJssel, Carien Kuypers van Dongen creates ceramics using pigments she collects near her studio. The result is remarkable and unique, with textures and colours shaped by the river and the surrounding landscape. Carien makes everyday ceramics, such as tableware and vases, inspired by traditional artisanal techniques. What makes her work special is that she creates her own pigments and glazes from local natural materials like clay from the IJssel, driftwood, and wild plants and flowers. This process results in a beautiful, warm color palette of earthy tones.

Discover her ceramics online and at the By Mölle studio store in Hattem.can you tell us a bit more about yourself?
"I studied singing at the Conservatory and lived and worked in Rotterdam for many years. Because I wanted to work with my hands, I attended the Dutch Ceramics School in Gouda. During this comprehensive technical training, I learned the craft. I was uncomfortable using industrial glazes and pigments from distant countries. While researching the origins of these materials, I found that the supply chain often isn’t sustainable. So, I started looking for alternatives in my own surroundings, where there is so much beauty to be found. This makes my ceramics more personal and connects them to where I’m from. When I moved close to the IJssel River, I began experimenting with creating pigments and glazes from nature. It’s complex but incredibly fun—almost like being an alchemist. The process is magical, and I want to reflect that beauty in my work."what inspires you?
"I've had a passion for working with earth and clay since I was young. The IJssel is literally around the corner from my studio, and the colours and textures there play an important role in my work. My biggest inspiration is nature. The IJssel gives me the opportunity to collect clay, stones, and driftwood for glazes. My garden is also a source of pigments and colours; I grow wildflowers and experiment with them. Branches, bark, flowers, seeds—there is so much beauty and endless possibilities for my ceramics."

how did you discover that you could make your own glazes?
"It was a process of self-study and experimentation. Sometimes things come out of the kiln, and you think, ‘Well, this didn’t work.’ But you learn a lot that way. A well-known technique is reduction firing, which produces beautiful glazes. I built a wood-fired kiln in my garden that I want to experiment with further. This kiln has the advantage that you only need wood; the ash forms a natural glaze. I’ve also experimented with electric kilns and discovered that ash glazes can yield beautiful results. The combination of traditional and modern firing offers many possibilities, and it’s a fascinating process."how would you describe your work?
"I create small series of functional objects. Minimalistic, made with great attention and care. The entire process takes several weeks. I start by harvesting IJssel clay along the riverbank. The clay is sifted to remove stones and sand, then dried and finely ground for use as pigment. The process includes preparing the clay, throwing, finishing, drying, bisque firing, glazing, and the final glaze firing. I fire my kilns using solar energy and recycle my clay and glazes. My ceramics are strong, durable, and dishwasher-safe, with glazes that allow the natural clay to remain visible."

“The earth turns to gold in the hands of the wise” - Rumi

why this quote?
"The quote by Rumi resonates with me because it’s important to treat nature with care. Small, thoughtful actions, like avoiding pesticides, can have a big impact. For me, it’s about combining wisdom and sustainability in everything I do. I strive to produce as little waste as possible; leftover glazes are reused, and my kilns are used as efficiently as possible."how did the collaboration with By Mölle come about?
"The collaboration with By Mölle developed organically. We share a passion for sustainability and nature, which connects us. It feels right to work together to share this message."

more information
Carien Kuypers van Dongen's ceramics are available online and at the Hattem store. You are warmly welcome to visit.