Today was one of those days that was busy from the moment I put my slippers on this morning until I put them back on again before sitting down to write this post. It has been a good kind of busy, but I won't lie… after having dinner and a small glass of wine tonight, I really didn't want to go back out again, but the classes have been paid for and truth be told, I am always glad that I went when I go.
So….tonight, we had a blast. I love the girls I am working with. Our teacher Jen reminds me so much of my daughter Ashley. I know that they would be great friends if they ever met….kindred spirits for sure. One of my class members just happens to be the mom to some of my youngest daughters friends as well and I really enjoy having her in my class. We have good fun in class laughing at our failed attempts and cheering each others successes.
As an extra bonus tonight, we were able to collect the items that we glazed and had fired from the last round of classes, because we will not be able to have the kiln opening party with the upcoming holiday. The picture I took was not the best as it was on the fly with my iphone in so so lighting.
I am going to take some better pictures with my big camera tomorrow and talk about the successes and failures of the finished items. Pottery is very much a process and it is slow. It is very tactile and takes many hours of throwing clay to get to the point where you are in control of the clay instead of the clay telling you what to do. While it may sound romantic in a way, letting the clay lead the way…truth be told, if you want to be consistent in what you are producing you need to learn how to control that clay so that you are able to produce the same thing, such as matching bowls, coffee mugs, etc.
Tonight I had what I felt was one real success. I made a batter bowl and I was in charge of the clay…it felt good. The other two bowls the clay was in charge, so the clay still beat me…but I had one win, so it's all good. 😉
The Woolen Rabbit 
I loved the post. I remember my clay classes in high school art. It seemed like every clay project I made I actually ended up having to make the object twice. The first ones would blow up in the kiln or come out with the wrong glaze color(teacher made his own and I don’t remember sample tiles showing what they should look like.) or some other problem. On the wheel I went through pounds of clay and I think from one ‘lump’ I got something about the size of an ink well. It is definitely a medium that you have to be willing to have unexpected results from. Years later my community had a arts and crafts center and I finally could throw pots and made myself a couple of teapots (small). The best was a friend asked me to duplicate a clay shot ‘glass’ as one of their set had broken. I allowed the right amount for the clay shrinkage and the finished glass was a good enough match, as long as it was in the back of the set. 🙂
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It makes sense that if you want to consistently produce the same product you have to control the clay. BUT. For your own sake I would imagine that letting the clay control the product is also rewarding. I think your pieces are beautiful. Still waiting to know when I can buy something . . .
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I am impressed. And I love that glaze recipe.
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Sounds like s lot of fun. They look wonderful. I think perhaps it’s best if you and the clay reach an agreement. Surprise can be a great partner.
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Although I always feel like I “don’t have time”, I ALWAYS feel renewed when I get to my art class. (The hardest part is usually getting out the door. . . ) Your work is beautiful, Kim!
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Throwing clay is something I’ve always wanted to try and when I have more time on my hands, I will take classes. Your work is inspiring, Kim and while you see the little imperfections, we do not. They bowls and mugs are charming and I love the colors you use.
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They are SO beautiful, nicely done!
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How I wish I lived up there near that place. I love visiting on vacation. Your work is beautiful Kim!
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Love the way the front right bowl seems to be transparent and the upright bowl can be seen through it. You are an inspiration.
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