Last week, the production project I’ve been incessantly discussing this semester came to its official completion! Suzie Stone, fellow ceramics major, and I successfully glazed our bisque ware, loaded one of our studio’s gas kilns, and fired it all on our own. Being so critically involved from start to finish of the production of these functional pots made the anticipation of unloading the kiln’s contents that much more unbearable. Finally the time came on Friday morning, and our determination and patience were rewarded with beautiful results (if I do say so myself). Check it out:

I revisited some old techniques I liked, like trailing slip on the surfaces of stemless wine glasses for texture, and I tried some new forms, like creamer pitchers with impressions that act as handles, and on top of it all (literally) I tried to get really exploratory with layering glazes. All in all, I learned a great deal from partaking in this project, and seeing it through from start to finish really invigorated me. Suzie and I were so thrilled with all we had accomplished in creating this mini line of wares that after we amassed all of our pieces, all we could do was stare and smile at what came to be through our hands every step of the way. I can’t wait to put all of my creations to use, and maybe even give them homes outside my own… with the exception of a few of my favorite things including these:

Looking at these, I had visions of my own future home, my own kitchen, lined with open shelving, filled with stacks of my own hand made dinnerware. I could almost smell my own home cooked meal resting on them, and that was validating. As artists, we are often our own worst critics, but I think it’s important to take time to reflect, and feel validated in our growth. Looking at these plates did just that for me. I am so proud of how far I’ve come as a potter, and would be proud to serve someone from my own pieces.

And here’s to making many more!