We are thrilled to introduce the newest member of #TeamVIDA — Maddie Ford, Community Support Associate at VIDA Portland!
Maddie is a potter, ceramics instructor, and born-and-raised Portlander who comes to VIDA through one of the most unexpected (and honestly, most Portland) career paths we’ve ever heard: from clinical research coordinator to full-time clay artist and teacher. Passionate about growing connected communities and solving problems creatively, Maddie loves helping others discover what brings them joy, finding playful solutions, and nurturing environments where people feel empowered to grow.
When she’s not at VIDA (where she holds down the fort in the afternoons!), you can find Maddie tending to her tomatoes, logging miles on a long run, hunting down the best new pizza spots in Portland, or holding court on astrology, book recs, and all things Real Housewives.
To get to know her a little better, we asked Maddie a couple of our classic Questions…
1. What led you to this work?
I started taking ceramics classes in early 2020 and became truly obsessed with clay. I’ve always been drawn to creative practices — painting, printmaking, fiber arts — but I never imagined a career in the arts. In community studios, I found incredible teachers who helped empower me as an artist, and a community that helped me get through the pandemic. Looking back, I realize the community spaces were always my first passion and clay was my second — so it makes a lot of sense that I ended up at VIDA!
I took a break from my work as a research coordinator in 2022, intending to create my first collection with loose plans for grad school. But during that time, my first opportunities to teach found me — and I knew I would never look back. I love being part of spaces where people come to try new things, find connection, and express themselves.
2. What are your passions — personal or professional?
Born and raised in the PNW, I’ve been conditioned since birth to love being outside and embracing type-two fun. Backpacking, running, lake swimming — yes to all of it. Most weekends you can find me running or volunteering in Forest Park. (If you spot me out there, say hi!)
3. How has community played a role in your everyday work life?
Community is at the heart of my journey as an artist — I genuinely would not be able to create without it. Working in community art spaces, I’ve witnessed time and again that nothing is done in a silo. We are all better when resources are shared and collaboration is central to the work. I feel passionate about contributing to that kind of ecosystem and easing the path for anyone chasing their dream.
Follow along with Maddie’s ceramic work on Instagram: @maddiesfragilethings
Welcome, Maddie… we are so glad your path from the lab to the pottery studio led you here!
Her warmth, creativity, and deep belief in the power of community are already a perfect fit for everything VIDA stands for — and we can’t wait for you to meet her. ✨
VIDA is a coworking community designed to #MakeLifeWork for our members. With locations in Portland and Beaverton, Oregon, we offer private offices, dedicated desks, and open coworking — alongside thoughtfully curated amenities and an incredible member community. Book a tour to see it for yourself.