I've been studying pottery and quite enjoying it. I find that working with the clay gives me great pleasure. So much of my life is spent multitasking: writing articles, teaching, keeping up with the world (usually all at the same time); when I am throwing pots, I have discovered that if my mind is elsewhere (thinking about grand scholarly issues or what I'm going to make for dinner), my work flops. However, when I allow myself to become part of the clay and immerse myself in it, it leaves me feeling very peaceful. It's a chance to clear my mind in a career that demands constant mental processing.
Here are some of my fledgeling pieces from my first batch. Click each to see a larger version.
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Here's some work from my second firing. I'm experimenting with glazes and shapes, as well as function. Not always succesful..
A study in mug shapes and sizes, with matching sugar and creamer |
A big ugly mug. |
A pair of incense burners |
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During the third, and final, firing, I worked with larger pieces and different glazing techniques. In addition, I began experimenting with englobes - clay that is tinted and applied to the pot during the drying process. This was the end of my first semester of pottery class.
Two vases, each about a foot tall. |
Chip and dip set, about 18 inches across |
Serving plate, about a foot across |
Three pieces done with englobe and clear glaze. When applied, the englobe is a terracotta red. |
Small casserole with lid |
Both of these are about 8 inches. The vase is in the same style as earlier works |
Mug for my office |
The whole batch spread out in the basement |
My first "art" piece. I call it Turnip. Darwin and Sophie are the local critics. |
Here are some of the pieces from my second batch. For the record, the bear is about a foot long.
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