How are you? It was Spring here in West Michigan. This morning, I am back to wearing my sleeping bag coat. You know the one? It is below your knees, well insulated, and just makes you feel cozy no matter the temperature. The sun is shining this morning and that deserves a smile.
Studio:
I had my first firing of 2022 in my gas kiln. It was a good one! I have new bowls, mugs, vases that reflect our Lake Michigan’s big water and beaches. Even, though, the winter weather makes my hands and feet ache. It is very beautiful at the waterfront in the winter time. Please go to the website to see more pottery from this firing. We will be adding more over the next week.
Some glaze information: Copper Red glazes can be elusive in reduction firings. This is the nature of the glaze. It is not a mistake that you will find the glaze going from red to white. (just sayin’)
Gallery:
Sarah always laughs at me because I continue to exclaim, “Wow, these pieces are fabulous!” Each time, I create a video for social media or take photos of artwork for our website, I see a piece with fresh eyes. I always see something new in a bowl, mug, necklace, or a painting. It’s one of the things I love about original art. With our weather still being cool, take a wander in one of your area museums. Slow your day down, to really look. I bet you will see something that is intriguing.
This original hand pulled print makes me think about Spring time walks. Lee Ann Frame’s “Creek Passage” is an etching and aquatint printed on hahnemühle paper.
Life:
Last week, I took a bus trip with 39 other people to Alabama. It was to learn more about Slavery in the South and the Americas. Intentionally, I did not read any of the suggested books. I wanted to go with open eyes. My eyes were opened, all right. What I learned in those four days is astounding. I knew logically our Black History, at least a small part of it. I am a child of the 60’s who was raised in West Michigan. I didn’t really know.
I had goosebumps for hours while walking through these world class Alabama museums. There were tears; embarrassment for not knowing; incredulous reports read; and heart wrenching exhibits. I believe this is a trip every United States citizen should take. Our children need to learn these history lessons. We need to know – all of us. I am planning to share more information over time.
The Birmingham Alabama baptist where there was a bombing that killed four girls.
Outside the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute
Sculpture outside of Civil Rights Institute
“I ain’t afraid of your jail”
Birmingham, Alabama Sculpture
the other side of the sculpture in the park.
On the bus, we watched the movie based on a book written by Bryan Stevenson, Just Mercy. My first impression was that the story took place in the early 1970’s. I was very wrong. Our tears began here.
Suggested books:
Caste by Isabel Wilkerson
A Journey through the American South by Imani Peri
Just Mercy by Bryan Stevenson
The New Jim Crow by Michelle Alexander
White Fragility by Robin DiAngelo
Of course, I have a couple new recipes:
Easy Skillet Chicken Tinga Enchiladas
Grated Egg Avocado Asparagus Salad
I also wanted to say thank you to those of you who have purchased art in the last two months. Thank you for supporting the arts. Your purchase helped me send $325 to Unicef for the Ukrainian Children.
A quote:
“Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can.”
by: Arthur Ashe
Please, take good care,
Cyndi
