He(ART) of Bellevue Spotlight: A Home for Ceramics, Alyson Storms Fine Art, Fat Dragonfly Collection, and More

The Bellevue Downtown Arts Market is a vibrant event that celebrates the artistic talent and creativity of over 110+ artists. The Arts Market is a great way for these amazing artists show-off their incredible work. Get to know these artists better with this week's He(ART) of Bellevue spotlight featuring seven exceptional artists who want to share their passion for creativity with the community.

A Home for Ceramics
Artist: Katja Kromann

What type of art do you create?

I work with stoneware clay, mostly on the wheel. My work often combines wheel-thrown pieces with hand-built elements, such as the attachment of a foot or a handle, and the stenciling or carving of patterns.

How long have you been practicing your type of art?

I have made ceramics since 2018, but I have been working creatively all my life with interior design, web design, photography, pattern making and more. (portfolio at katjakromann.com)

Where did you learn or develop your technique?

I learned through experimentation and lots of research, trial and error and drawing from my other creative pursuits. For instance, I developed my pattern-making techniques for my ceramic works over many years of drawing, vector work, and working with cardstock models.

What is something that you would like to share with the Bellevue community?

I am looking forward to my first time at the Bellevue Art Market this summer, and I am currently running back to back kilns to be ready. Find out about my work on ahomeforceramics.com. Click on Studio Stories to find behind-the-scenes pictures of what I am working on and please follow me on Instagram @ahomeforceramics.

Alyson Storms Fine Art
Artist: Alyson Storms

What type of art do you create?

I create mixed media abstract art, inspired by the landscapes of the Pacific Northwest.

How long have you been practicing your type of art?

I have been practicing for 7 years professionally. I received my BFA in painting from Boise State University. 

Where did you learn or develop your technique?

I learned some from art school and some I’ve discovered on my artistic journey.

What is your latest project?

I’m currently working on a series of crushed glass and resin pieces inspired by different views of the Puget Sound.

Fat Dragonfly Collection
Artist: Shanni Welsh

What type of art do you create?

I create mixed Medium Illustrations.

Where do you draw inspiration from when creating your art?

I draw inspiration from the beautiful backdrop of my home in the Pacific Northwest, with emphasis on nature, animals and the elements of line, texture & color. My work has been described as a blend of Mid-Century Modern and contemporary Folk, with a touch of Native influence.

What is your latest project?

My latest designs are focused on birds as well as animals I encountered traveling to the southwest this past winter

What is something that you would like to share with the Bellevue community?

As an artist and a lover of nature, my goal is to enhance awareness of the natural environments we share with all living earthlings and to inspire cruelty free lifestyles.

Mad Mosaics
Artist: Carman Komm

What type of art do you create?

I create recycled fused glass framed with vintage window frames.

How long have you been practicing your type of art?

I have been practicing for 20 years.

Where did you learn or develop your technique?

I'm a self-taught artist who has learned through trial and error.

What is something that you would like to share with the Bellevue community?

When I think of art I think of recycling and the environment. My prices are kept at a minimum because everything I use is recycled. It's just my tiny way of helping our environment for future generations.

McCrain Photography
Artist: Phil McCrain

What type of art do you create?

I create photographic prints of birds in the wild.

Where did you learn or develop your technique?

I began photography over fifty years ago. As my practice ebbed and flowed over the years I developed a vision of how I wanted to represent my subjects. I've always learned well from books and that is how my technical skills were aquired.

Where do you draw inspiration from when creating your art?

My avian subjects are a constant source of joy and wonder. My morning ritual includes watching out the window and enjoying the birds in the backyard. I try to share the joy I feel while watching them in my art.

What is something that you would like to share with the Bellevue community?

There is beauty and peace all around us, even in the smallest bits of nature, if we pause to see it.

Peace Dog
Artist: Beth Wright

What type of art do you create?

I create mostly textile pet products.

Where did you learn or develop your technique?

I took sewing lessons when I had a brick and mortar pet boutique. Customers could come in and custom order a collar, go to lunch and come back in to pick it up.

What is your latest project?

I’m slowly developing a Mommy, Doggie, and baby line.

What is something that you would like to share with the Bellevue community?

I love the area and I am happy to be participating in this year’s festival.

Saucy Jewelry
Artist: Elisa Saucy

What type of art do you create?

I create jewelry using sterling, 18k gold and natural gemstones.

Where did you learn or develop your technique?

My daughter's grandmother taught me the basics when she was born. After that, I explored techniques on my own.

Where do you draw inspiration from when creating your art?

Oftentimes the gemstones have a story that emerges from their beauty. I enjoy creating pieces that become talismans for people as they journey through life. Having meaning in the jewelry I make, whether it's through an affirmation or a story is important to me.

What is something that you would like to share with the Bellevue community?

It is always a joy to come and connect with new people and get to touch in with many repeat customers.

The 2024 Bellevue Downtown Arts Market is generously supported by Amazon and the City of Bellevue.

See All 110+ Artists

This blog is part of the Heart of Bellevue: our campaign to showcase local businesses while connecting you with stories of activity, creativity and recovery. Find out about our campaign and explore more of what’s happening around Downtown.