Statement
Growing up, I struggled with my identity. Knowing that I was queer but being in conservative Christian family and community meant that I needed to hide who I was. Creating with clay has opened me up to showing who I am. I create pieces to make safe spaces. Bringing whimsy into pain is a powerful tool.
Bio
Torie Crouse is a nonbinary self taught ceramicist in Grand Rapids, MI. While also being a message therapist, they create ceramics to express themselves and make connections with others. They focus on creating unique sgraffitoed surfaces with an emphasis on making the viewer feel safe and seen. Spending time with their work, they put intense details into the linework that makes the viewer feel connected.