Chugging Along!

So remember the last post I did about the large pot I made? Well, things are moving along a little bit at a time!

I took some time to make some slip from the red version of the clay I use. Slip is essentially somewhat runny, creamy mud. I put a few layers on the pot and let it solidify.

And the angst began.

"What am I going to carve into this? What if I screw it up?"

I always do this. Start a big project and then psych myself out. It's not one of my better features. But I have learned to step in and just start. It helps to just do the first thing, the first line, whatever. Just taking the first step is empowering! Then I can get into my creative zone and just keep rolling with the momentum of one step after another. I know how to do this part!

So I made a decision and dove in!

I'll keep carving around the pot, continuing with the California desert theme. If this turns out well, I hope to be able to submit it to one or two of the more prestigious art shows. It's been a few years since I got juried into an international art show, and longer since I had a piece in a museum show. That's going to change, really soon!

More WIPs

 Sorry that it's been a bit since my last post! I've been busy with lots of things and there are only so many hours in the day!

I'm currently training myself on some new pottery forms. While Halloween ceramics are still undoubtedly my bread and butter, I'd like to make some more art pots so I can start submitting to international art shows, again. As the time my kiln is expected to arrive draws nearer, day by day, my desire to make new and beautiful art intensifies!

I'm taking the time to start carving porcelain, again, and I'm pushing myself to make larger pieces, too. Since my shoulder is still recovering from a nasty case of tendonitis, I'm learning to compensate and not over-stress the area so that I can continue to make new pots.

It'll be interesting to see how the larger piece turns out. Honestly, I'm just hoping it will survive my poking and prodding it into shape!

And I'm behind on Hallowe'en making, but I think I'll be able to catch up with it soon!

Onward!