When a pot really isn’t a just a pot…
When is a pot not just a pot?
When does that lump of clay become something so much more?
As a “maker of things” I have created a lot of clay things in my short life-span: bowls, mugs, dishes, jars, containers, tiles, dresses, etc.
Until now, I hadn’t put an incredible amount of thought into the emotional experience and “soul” of making a pot.
Most of the objects I made were things to look pretty, hold food, match someone’s kitchen colors, or things for a craft fair….I think it’s fair to say that I have let myself become a “shallow artist.”
When I was studying Ceramics at The Cleveland Institute of Art, I did delve into the theory and aesthetics of object making; exploring function and purpose, social context, surface and form.
I don’t think I’ve explored ceramics in such depth since my senior thesis project, nor did I anticipate the need to access that knowledge bank in the future.
My days of being a “shallow artist” have come to an abrupt end with one simple request: would I be willing to make 13 funerary urns to hold the ashes of my best friend.
My heart is breaking and my tears have soaked each pot through and through.
Suddenly, those meaningless lumps of clay now have to capture the soul and essence of a beautiful person.
I hope that I can make you proud.
I love you.
Tara Owens said,
September 11, 2011 at 11:25 pm
This is so beautiful. Your offering of love.