Memories are evoked in a myriad
of ways. The smell of a campfire
in the earlier morning; the sounds of the first spring peepers at dusk; the
photographs of time gone by….
Sight, sounds, smells, all bring us back to a past time when we remember
where we were, the friends that we shared those times with, and the feelings we
experienced.
The other day, I found myself
reminiscing….not using photographs or sounds- but pots. Yes- pots. I started walking through my house taking note of all those
pots that I have acquired over these past seven years and it brought to mind
some wonderful times. Take a trip with me these next few entries as I take a
trip down memory lane:
My first pot: Wow- I can't believe I showing this photo!! It’s my Hershey Kiss candy dish! It fits just one! I remember the first day of class, my first touch of the clay beneath my fingers, the smell of the musty clay as it came out of the bag. But what I remember most are the friendship that I made- some of the best and fulfilling in my life. And I am happy to say that many are still in my life today.
My first wood-firing with Susan Beecher: Here I learned the true meaning of blood, sweat, and tears. I learned the power of energy and fire, and the wonderful camaraderie that is born out of having a shared goal. Here, I also learned the power of laughter and music. In the wee hours of the morning when the fire continues to burn, but your own internal fire is starting to wane- laughter and music can pull you through. These are some of my most cherished pots, memories, and friends.
My first workshop: Here I listened to what I consider a technical artist- Todd Piker. An artist that has a strong and fervent philosophy about pottery, process, and craft, he is precise and measured, yet his pots have movement and life. The trip to Vermont with my mother was a wonderful weekend. I was so nervous taking a workshop as I really didn’t have a clue. But this experience was one that will never be forgotten. And I now realize that you must absorb yourself in pots and the work of others to truly learn about craft and technique.
Stay tuned for more pots and more
memories….
What a great post! I feel this way looking back at past pots as well. I hope to have even more pleasant memories, like yours :)
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