Studio, Gallery, and Life: 70, What is domestic function? ⋆ C2C

How are you? It is officially summer. Fourth of July always marks the halfway point for me. In reality, September is gorgeous too. So, maybe, only a quarter of the way through summer. Whew! I still have time to enjoy warm days and nights; the beach; biking; walks; and sitting on the patio with friends and family.

Need some new recipes?

Caprese Pesto Tarts

Black Bean Shakshuka

15 minute Garlic Butter Ramen Noodles

Simple Blueberry Basque Cheesecake

Studio:

I usually listen to podcasts or music while working in the studio. This past week, I listened to Ben Carter interview Australian artist, Merran Esson. I found her so interesting and informative that I listened to the interview three times. One of my takeaways was that it took her several years to move from functional domestic pottery to sculpture. I love this term “domestic function”. For me this means creating pottery that will be used in the home – serving food, eating your meals, and containers. The meaning could be stretched to include decorative pieces that enhance your home. (Please, understand that this is my definition). Another thing that she mentions is that she spent many years creating functional pottery and was never thrilled with the pieces. One day, she had an “ah-ha” moment realizing that she was never going to be great at making plates, bowls, mugs, and serving pieces. Her heart was in sculpture. This is where I am at today with my clay work. I can throw proficiently on the potter’s wheel. I just don’t love it. Yes, I do get pleasure providing clients and friends with dishes. I love seeing their smiles and knowing that they are using handmade pottery daily. This past February, I was able to spend the month just thinking about my work. I think I am starting to see that it was truly what I needed to move me forward with ideas. I have always loved the beach and trees. I love the water and wind patterns in the sand. Tree bark is always very interesting to me.

In the last few months, I have been thinking about a Chihuly glass exhibit that I saw twice more than 3 years ago. Once in Arkansas and again in Florida. The body of ocean-like forms that related to organic bowls for me had me taking hundreds of pictures from different angles. I think those pieces are now showing up in my work.

Gallery:

We have new earrings arriving created by Lochlin Smith in the next couple of days. I am offering free shipping on any of his jewelry. No code necessary. Plus, some of my new work will be published in the next few days. Please come back to the website to see if one of these new vessels speak to you. One of a kind. Lake Michigan Beach sand on the exterior. Our gorgeous sunsets on the inside.