Ann Kruglak of Boulder, Colorado, uses art to follow her passion of rainforest conservation. Through the creation of vibrant, fanciful, and eco-friendly pieces, Ann expresses her love of nature and manifests her desire to protect the world’s last rainforests. The sale of her artwork, which is made from polymer clay, glass, and other natural materials, has helped protect more than one thousand acres of rainforest, as all the proceeds from her rainforest projects are donated to Rainforest Trust.

“I see this work as a cooperative effort between myself and the earth, through the materials and guidance it provides,” said Kruglak. “All proceeds go to charities that benefit humanity and the earth.”

Rather than use a kiln at 1000-2000 degrees for several hours to dry her artwork, Kruglak has adopted an environmentally friendly and cost-efficient process that requires only the use of a conventional oven for twenty minutes. The lower temperature of a conventional oven allows Kruglak to incorporate many types of materials, such as metal, glass, wood, stone, bone, fabric, plastic, and even paper, into her work.

Kruglak’s artwork and her passion for rainforests have inspired others in a variety of ways. People have shown support by purchasing her works, collecting and donating raw materials, as well as sponsoring exhibits and workshops.

“Art has touched me deeply all of my life, and I have come to realize that is because beauty is a reflection of divinity. I create art because it connects me to my spiritual center, and the greater mystery of the universe. My dearest hope is that my art will serve that same purpose for others and inspire them to bring their gifts of service into the world,” said Kruglak.

Kruglak’s art is characterized by its playful and inspirational nature, which draws on bright colors and whimsical designs to lift the spirits of its viewers. Her work has been displayed in Colorado galleries, in juried shows and festivals, and in publications such as The Polymer Arts Magazine, Polymer Revolution, and American Style Magazine.

Kruglak’s current project, aptly entitled “Time to Save the Rainforest,” has resulted in the creation of a series of rainforest-themed ceramic clocks. These clocks expand on her previous work which has included jewelry, home decoration, and other art pieces. You can visit Kruglak’s web site or her Etsy shop to purchase her artwork.