I always have a plan when it comes to my business. I think that derives from the years of working for businesses that required me to do just that.
I have 4 calendars, I spend time writing out and planning and honestly, that makes me feel “stable”. The thing about this process is that sometimes, the feeling to create just isn’t there.
So this week, instead of making mugs and bowls, which was my plan. I worked on new ideas and glazing and just spending time in my studio just studying the space.
In the early morning when I first wake up. I always first turn on the light and then I make coffee. I think I need that moment to access what needs to be done. Once the coffee is finished, I walk into the studio with one of the many “not so perfect mugs” I have saved for myself and I am absolutely overwhelmed with the space. How did I get so lucky to have this inspiring workplace??
The windows make me feel like I am outdoors, the wheel is in the perfect spot, the butcher block my parents found in a dumpster in Detroit in the 70’s feels like it was made just for me to glaze on, the table my friend made me is so perfect and the shelves full of pieces that are drying or ready to be glazed remind me what needs to be done and also what I have already completed.
I am learning to not shame myself for changing the plan. I know I will make even more the next time I am inspired for that part of my pottery world. Today, my part was glazing, loading the kiln, cleaning the studio and just spending a quiet moment to appreciate the space I have to create.
I am a lucky girl.
Tomorrow or maybe Saturday I will fill up a bucket of water, grab some clay and create something new. Until then, I am proud of what was accomplished today. Mostly the accomplishment of learning to be grateful.
”Gratitude turns what we have into Enough”
Studio
Some Thoughts on Pottery
StudioCommentI came into this pottery world a novice. And I ardently believe that I still am. There is so much to learn and I spend my days watching and learning and researching.
The thing about pottery is that it is a “craft”. The making of pieces that feel good and are functional is something that needs to be developed over time. At least, for me.
Nothing came natural. Every single thing I have learned, I have done just that… LEARNED!
Early on in my life, I heard an instructor tell me. “Practice doesn’t make perfect, Practice makes permanent.” (Thank you, Mr Birch!) And I think about that constantly as I learn new skills. Making sure that I listen to my instructors and when I work, I work with purpose. I put my hands where they taught me, I think about the speed of the wheel, I clean my hands after every pull, I measure the bottoms, the sides and I make sure that the handles look as good as they feel.
Pottery has taught me patience and it has given me the knowledge that if I want to learn something new, I can. As long as I put the time into it.
Lately, I have been pushing my limits with clay and glaze and firing techniques in the hope that I can learn so many more skills and maybe even other crafts to bring to my pottery world.
I hope you enjoy coming along this ride with me. On to the next adventure!