I'm an early riser, but a little slow to get going. So, I sit down with a cup of coffee and ease into the day. I'd like to tell you I spend these quiet moments writing morning pages or reading something by an author known for their descriptive prose ... but honestly I'm mostly scrolling twitter and trying to make a coherent to-do list. Hey, at least I'm drinking coffee out of a mug with a comfortable handle and a cozy curved side. When I remember to stop and appreciate these little things, then I know it's going to be a good day. Want to have a similar cozy vibe in the morning? Get your own 8oz Teal Mug in...
... but when I was getting my degree, I had an instructor say to me "I bet you'll find a way to combine your passion for interior design and clay." And I think I've finally found a way to do that. When I started making pots, I immediately knew I wanted to make simple dinnerware. Nothing you'd consider "fine art". Definitely functional pottery. But it took me a long time to convince myself this was a worthwhile pursuit. You see, when I sit down to throw a batch of vases or cups, I feel deeply peaceful. And I want the things I make to cary that peace out into the wider world, and eventually into your home. I think I've figured out how...
The last couple weeks have been hard on my corner of the clay world. Friends of mine have publicly shared experiences of bullying and harassment, and then weathered more bullying and harassment in the responses of some of our colleagues. They’ve been asked for more details. They’ve been asked to prove it. They’ve been treated with hostility or dismissed. And I get it. If you’ve had nothing but good experiences with an organization like Pottery Northwest, and now you’re hearing vague reports of some pretty egregious behavior, this all feels sudden and bewildering.At my first NCECA in Kansas City I kept hearing from all corners how supportive and accepting the clay world was. Not all snarky and back-stabbing like other...
Treated myself to a cozy, lazy breakfast in bed this weekend. And when I got up for a sec, I had to reclaim my spot from The Majestic Chimi. She's a soft, snuggly floof but with absolutely no spacial awareness. All she cared about was a window through which to chirp at the birdies. I'm in love with my Sunset colorway right now. The bright splash of color is reminding me that spring is on the way. On this tray I have a 12oz Mug, Ring Dish, and Lunch Plate all in Sunset color. Plates are new, and I'm happy to make them for you but they're not in the online shop yet. Email me if you're interested!...
Look, I don't think 2021 will be an easier year. But I do think I learned and grew a lot last year, and I'm hopeful that with new tools and connections I'll be able to make more of a difference. And with some greater clarity and sense of self I'll be able to make more art. Went for a walk on the beach with my morning coffee (I'd like to do more of that this year) and was just really grateful for this beautiful place I've found myself in. When I moved to Whidbey Island in 2016, it was supposed to be temporary. But the island had other ideas, and now we're building a home here on the shores of...
