Annya Bandstra is an international ceramic artist whose work is shaped by movement, culture, and a deep curiosity for materiality. Having lived across the Philippines, Singapore, United Arab Emirates, Jordan, Vietnam, Spain, and now Panama and having traveled to more than 90 countries she draws constant inspiration from the landscapes, traditions, and people she has encountered. Currently based in Panama after many years in Barcelona, Annya’s life and practice are defined by exploration, both geographical and creative.

Fascinated by the relationship between form and function, colour and texture, Annya approaches clay as both a medium and a language. Her work reflects a deep respect for the ancient traditions of pottery while embracing experimentation and contemporary design. This balance led her to found The Clay House, a space dedicated to sharing her passion for ceramics and making clay a therapeutic, educational, and joyful experience accessible to all.

Annya’s path to ceramics was anything but conventional. After earning a degree in Computer Science, she began an international career that took her to live and work in United Arab Emirates, Singapore, Jordan, and Vietnam. In 2017, while based in Ho Chi Minh City, a chance visit to a small pottery studio on a rainy afternoon became a turning point. What began as a beginner’s hand-building class quickly evolved into a full apprenticeship and a lifelong dedication to the ceramic arts.

Under the intensive guidance of Vietnamese Master Potter Mr. Dat Nguyen, Annya refined her skills in wheel throwing, glazing, and traditional firing techniques such as raku, pit firing, and saggar firing. Her studies later took her to Japan, where she trained under Sensei Kato Hiroshige, a third-generation potter, further deepening her understanding of discipline, precision, and heritage. Additional workshops across China, Nepal, India, Taiwan, Indonesia, The Netherlands and Barcelona have enriched her practice with diverse regional and traditional ceramic techniques.

For Annya, pottery is more than an art form it is a meditative practice and a powerful tool for self-expression. Through The Clay House, she invites others to slow down, work with their hands, and rediscover creativity through clay.