Biography

In 2003, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome changed Ri’s life, unable to work she turned to a past love – clay. Initially clay was therapeutic but gradually became her life and in 2005 Ri went back to University to complete a Bachelor of Visual Art part-time while her health slowly improved. 

Since then Ri has participated in over 80 exhibitions and had four large solo exhibitions. She has won several art prizes and been the recipient of philanthropic and government grants, her work has been published in two international books and is held in private collections in Australia and Internationally.

Inspiration

For over 20 years, Ri has been immersed in the world of ceramics, shaping raw earth into expressive, organic forms. As a ceramic artist specializing in Raku and hand-built sculptures, Ri explores themes of transformation, resilience, and playfulness. Each piece reflects an ongoing dialogue between control and unpredictability, embracing the alchemy of fire and clay.

The creative process begins with a moment of curiosity—sometimes sparked by the intricate structure of a seed pod, the weathered surface of stone, or the dynamic tension within natural forms.

Each piece is hand-built, slowly taking shape through a meditative process of coiling, pinching, and sculpting. The firing process is where transformation truly occurs, especially in the unpredictable nature of Raku; where the piece is fired to 1000 degrees, taken out whilst it is glowing hot and placed in reduction bins where flames and smoke leave their unique imprint. These elemental forces become collaborators in the final expression of the work.

The Australian landscape is woven into Ri’s practice in subtle yet meaningful ways. Living in regional Victoria, the textures, rhythms, and raw beauty of nature continually influence the work. The resilience of the land—its cycles of destruction and renewal—mirrors the organic unpredictability of Raku firing, where each piece emerges with a surface marked by fire, echoing the elemental forces that shape the world.

Art has the power to connect, and Ri treasures moments when her pieces find deep resonance with others. One such experience was when a collector shared how a particular sculpture became a source of comfort and grounding within their home.  These stories reinforce the profound role that handmade objects can play in people’s lives.

When someone welcomes Ri’s work into their home, the hope is that they feel a sense of connection—to the earth, to the handmade, and to the energy embedded in the piece. Whether it sparks curiosity, contemplation, or simply a quiet moment of presence, each creation is an invitation to slow down and engage with the beauty of imperfection.

Dimensions: 

22cmH x 19cmW x 8cmD 

Raku clay, Glaze and Firing

For all of Ri Van Veen's art, we offer free shipping Australia wide - except for exceptionally rural or regional areas. 

The art is double boxed and shipping with extra packaging to protect it against damage. 

If your item is damaged, please let us know within 14 days and we'll organise a replacement or refund.