Ottilie grew up right here in Hood River, surrounded by the same landscape that now shapes her work. She joined Wolf just a year out of high school as our youngest team member, already bringing a level of focus and dedication beyond her years. Before that, she had built out her own home studio—kiln and all—a clear sign that ceramics was something she was serious about.
In the studio, she has a natural rhythm—hardworking, focused, and always improving. Outside of Wolf, you’ll usually find her in the mountains or out on a trail, still closely connected to the place she’s always called home.
You grew up here in Hood River—what does it mean to you to be working in your hometown?
Working in my hometown is a dream come true. Hood River is, in my opinion, one of the most beautiful places ever. Getting to do what I love while living in such a beautiful place is very rewarding.
Before joining Wolf, you had already built out your own home studio. What first drew you to ceramics?
I’m not totally sure what first drew me to ceramics, as it’s something I’ve kind of grown up with. I first touched clay in third grade in an after-school class, then again in middle school, and all throughout high school. After graduating and not working with clay regularly, I realized how much I missed it—and that’s when I decided to pursue it more seriously and built my home studio.
How has your relationship to clay evolved since you started working in a studio setting?
It’s evolved in so many ways. Going from a hobby to a full-time job has improved my throwing ability faster than I thought was possible. The level of precision and care that goes into each piece at Wolf is something I didn’t even know existed before. It’s a whole new world, and I love it.
You’ve picked things up really quickly here—what part of the process has been the most exciting (or surprising) to learn?
It’s all exciting. Seeing my throwing improve so quickly has definitely been the most rewarding, but I’ve also loved learning all the different parts that go into running a small business. There’s so much happening beyond just making.
Outside of the studio, where do you usually find yourself?
Outside, always. I love hiking with friends—anything near Mount Hood is beautiful. The smell of the trees and wildflowers in the summer is my favorite.
You’ve spent time doing ballet and skiing—do those experiences show up in your work?
Ballet, for sure. I love consistency and structure, which is probably why I stuck with it for so long. It takes years to improve, and I’ve brought that same mindset into the studio. When I first started here, a lot of what I made didn’t make it past the week—but that just motivated me to keep improving. I thrive on the schedule and the process.
What does a “good day” in the studio look like for you?
Most days are good days. I get to do what I love and be surrounded by people who share similar interests—that’s the best part.
You’ve mentioned possibly taking classes in the future—what are you interested in exploring?
I’d love to explore wood and soda firing. I like the unpredictability—the surprise of not knowing exactly how pieces will turn out. I’ve been really drawn to the earthy colors that wood firing produces. I’m also slowly working toward my associate’s degree, and eventually a bachelor’s.
Being one of the younger members of the team, has that shaped your experience?
I’m still figuring that out, but I do think it’s shaping me. Working with people who have different backgrounds and experiences has helped me slow down and realize that life doesn’t have to be linear. When I applied, I assumed I’d be overlooked because of my age and lack of experience—but I’m really glad I was given the chance. I’ve already learned so much.
What are you most excited about right now?
Continuing to improve my throwing—both at Wolf and in my own studio. I’m excited to start learning new forms, hopefully throwing bigger pieces, and to travel more in the coming months.
Ottilie brings a steady, thoughtful presence to the studio; curious, hardworking, and always getting a little better each day. It feels like she’s just getting started, figuring out where ceramics might take her while building a really strong foundation along the way.
We feel lucky to be part of these early days and watch her skills take shape, piece by piece, here in Hood River.