When we first taste alcohol we try a beer or maybe a wine but Scotch or Bourbon is distasteful. When we start making pottery we think that thin and light with a beautiful glaze makes for a good potter. Then for some people education begins.Today I went for the unload of "Bob" the kiln of Emma Smith. I was surprised to learn that "M" has only been making pots for 10 years. I guess it was that long ago that I taught her at Sheridan College School of Craft and Design.
She has come a long way. Bob is her second wood kiln and by the looks of the inaugural firing Bob is an unqualified success. Emma did a reduction cool which presents a more somber colour pallette. More in keeping with the nature of rocks, wood, moss and the forests carpet. I don't think these pots qualify as "purdy pots" but they sure are beautiful. I commented on how much I liked her jugs. She said "Ya they may be a little light!" BINGO!!!! This is a woman smart beyond her years. There is a right weight for pots. A jug should weigh what you expect it to weigh. A cup should be heavy enough to keep the tea/coffee hot.
The firing went beautifully with what seemed like a laid back stoking pattern. There was no stress and the kiln responded to every small change. Stoking was casual with stokes maybe every 5 minutes or so. Emma had some sweet pots that I am sure she will be photographing and posting on her website this week. Visit http://www.blacksmithcountrygeneral.com . Not only is M becoming a damn fine potter she and her squeeze Jesse operate a very classy store with beautiful handmade objects. It is my big box store for Christmas.
Well done, M! Stand up and take a bow. T
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A Hairy Potter!
But I digress.)
I tell them that in order to develop their own aesthetic they will need to expose themselves to many many many handmade things, looking, touching, using.