I have never fancied myself a potter. I have always gravitated to more sculptural work. Last fall I took a throwing class. I had not thrown on the wheel since I was in middle school. It is a skill that must be practice, practice a lot to perfect. Unfortunately (in my opinion) there is a trend in art that emphasizes concept over technique. I am not opposed to concept, but too frequently, "artists" do not learn the technical skills well enough to successfully convey their ideas. Technical processes are merely tools to convey a concept. It takes time to develop a skill and I have this idea that because of our increasingly fast-paced and fractured society, many persons do not want to take the time to learn a skill or trade.
So I took a throwing class. Recently I was fortunate enough to come across a wonderful deal on a potter's wheel. It is a Brent CXC. I want to focus more on pottery over the next year. This is my goal. I never really thought that I would enjoy pottery as much as sculpture. I didn't want to lose my voice. What I'm realizing is that I can combine pottery and my interests to make more interesting pieces. I also have satisfaction in opening the cupboard, seeing a bowl I made, and using it. Functionality isn't always a bad thing, as many artists believe.
I really want to throw that "perfect" vessel, even, thin walls with a nice foot. It is a goal of mine. I know that I can, I just need to practice more. The wheel is currently at the school that I work at. I am going to make it my goal to throw 2 vessels everyday I work at the school.
