Van Island Starfish : Cathy Hutcheson

Van Island Starfish offer lifelike replicas for sea star lovers, and for visitors to take home as treasured souvenirs of their visit to our stunning wild west coast. They were first designed and produced in 1994 by Elaine Bohm of Ponderosa Designs. Authentic preserved sea stars have been used to create molds from which slip castings of the individual 3D ceramic sea stars continue today to be created. The greenware is kiln fired to bisque, then each sea star is hand glazed before a second kiln firing to give it a realistic finish.

Wanting to retire in 2023, but wanting to keep her starfish project alive, Elaine passed on her knowledge, techniques, molds, kiln, and passion for sea stars to Cathy of Island Pacific Art Designs, who has made it her mission to continue handcrafting these delightful keepsakes using the same methods and integrity that Ponderosa Designs has used for almost 30 years.

Did you know…
Fresh air is toxic for a sea star’s respiratory system and they cannot breathe out of water. Most species can only hold their breath for less than 30 seconds. To help protect these beautiful sea creatures, PLEASE ~ Leave them where they are for others to enjoy!