Wendy Olson

Wendy Olson serves as an Art Instructor (Lecturer) in the Art Department at Inver Hills Community College, where she has taught ceramics since 2001. She holds advanced credentials in fine arts with specializations in ceramics and painting.

Education:

• Master of Fine Arts (MFA) from Kent State University-Main Campus
• Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) from University Of Wisconsin-River Falls

Olson's artistic practice spans utilitarian pottery to contemporary ceramic sculpture, with significant contributions to painting and three-dimensional design. Her teaching philosophy emphasizes connecting students' personal interests to studio work while introducing broad perspectives on ceramics. She values the diverse age ranges and backgrounds in her classroom as catalysts for dynamic learning environments.

Her publication record demonstrates consistent contributions to ceramics literature, focusing on functional tableware design, surface treatments, and firing techniques. These works reflect her dual expertise in practical ceramic craftsmanship and contemporary artistic expression, establishing her as a recognized voice in ceramics education and practice.

With over 15 years of teaching experience at Inver Hills, Olson has instructed courses including ceramics, advanced figure drawing, and three-dimensional design across multiple institutions. She actively engages with the campus community through the surrounding natural environment and active community garden, which inform her holistic approach to art education.