Crystal Pottoff

In 2005, I was introduced to the art of pysanky. This is a wax batik process done on egg shells. My first teacher was Shelly Janikowski, a fabulous and supportive instructor who has encouraged me to try new techniques and show my art to the public. I’ve also had the opportunity to learn from Luba Perchyshyn, founder of the Ukrainian Gift Shop in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Since 2009, I have been teaching the art of pysanky in the Central Illinois area.

In 2016, I took acrylic painting and drawing classes at Illinois Central College. I also joined the Illinois Art League (IAL) as a means to meet other artists. Through the classes and the IAL, I’ve learned various ways to incorporate other forms of media into my paintings. At the 2018 IAL Member Show I received a 2nd place award for my multi-media painting “The Sower”. In July 2019 at the IAL Member Show I received a 3rd place award for my acrylic painting, “Reflections of Honfleur”. In August 2019 I participated in the Eggstravaganza in Egg Harbor, Wisconsin. During February and March 2021, my pysanky and paintings were on exhibit at the Time Gallery in East Peoria.

Creating art is a spiritual process for me. I love seeing an egg shell, canvas or other media come to life with color and form. It is most fulfilling when art inspires others to see beauty in their own world. I also love teaching the art of pysanky. It gives great joy to share this art with others, challenging people to try new techniques and processes to create unique forms of art.

https://www.prayerfularts.com/