If I could chose a favorite ceramics piece I've made (gosh, isn't it like choosing a favorite child?) I have to say I'm quite attached to this particular piece. The way the glaze transformed in the kiln just amazes me. Created at Pewabic's Pottery (yes, I am a huge fan of their courses if you haven't guessed). This piece was one of the first I threw after a many year hiatus from the wheel. While a bit wobbly and still regaining my muscle memory, I embraced the imperfection that comes with hand made goodies and fell for this bowl. It allowed me the freedom to experiment with the glazes in a detached way. "Well, this bowl is a little off center so if it doesn't turn out I'll just try again". This motto now reigns over my mind when throwing. Art is about trying again. As my acting teacher proclaims, "you will never reach your destination. But that's not what it's about, it's about the journey." (Thanks Loretta!!)
The artistic journey for me has taken many paths and this piece represents a large part of the letting go. The part of me that strives for perfection. While in studies still, my constant question that was given "how can you live between design and fine arts?"... I realize the reason for this question many years later has to do so much with this desire for perfection. As a fine artist, there is an acceptance for imperfection, almost a thirst for it. While as a designer, everyday is lived to create perfectly aligned, in order and well planned goods. Glazed Fire for me was embracing the fine artist in me and letting go of the designer. Understanding that I am going to have this inner conflict but, accepting that that is my journey. That is my inner fire and what will drive me to constantly try to resolve.
I will always be an outlier. It's my path. Creativity is my karma and I plan to spend my days resolving it in all it's forms.
