Going to Pot

Ceramics Now

2011-11-15T05:23:00.000-08:00

Ceramics Now is available digitally or in paper. Consider subscribing.

I was introduced to Brian Kakas's work via Ceramics Now. Wow.

Yunomi/Chawan/Tea Bowls

2011-11-14T21:43:00.000-08:00

Lots of great info and eye candy: The D.A.G. Yunomi Collection

Above is an exquisite tea bowl by B.C. master potter Wayne Ngan. I can just feel it in my hands and on my lips.

The Art of Managing your Career

2011-11-09T05:24:00.000-08:00

The Art of Managing your Career is a resource guide for self-employed artists and cultural workers in live performing arts; writing and publishing; visual arts and craft; film, television and broadcasting; digital media; music and sound recording, and heritage. It is put out by the Cultural Human Resources Council

Pit Firing at Coshise College

2011-11-05T07:09:00.000-07:00

This is an incredible video of an Extreme Pit Firing at Cochise College. Stephani Stephenson, an amazing tile maker, is currently subbing at the College. Lucky students. Here's one of her fountains.

Get on your dancing shoes and enjoy the video.

Clint Neufeld and his Family Connections

2011-11-04T06:41:00.000-07:00

I met Clint Neufeld at Lydia's Loft during a concert a year or so ago. He told me about his work and I was intrigued. Clint's multi-piece cast ceramic sculptures are amazing and have deep personal meaning to him.

Bart Gazzola wrote "the works presented by Clint Neufeld in “Grandpa used to washed my hands in gasoline” are both beautiful objects, and very meaningful objects, and they speak to notions of art making, beauty, and identity politics on both a national – and very regional – level: and all very much situated from a masculine place."

Chris Buhler, from Floating Gardens, who sells beautiful, tasty heirloom veggies at the Saskatoon Farmers' Market, was my booth neighbour on Wednesday and we got talking pots, food and more. Chris is Clint's brother-in-law and we had a quick peek at Clint's work on my laptop.

Art Biz Coach/auctions

2011-11-02T06:54:00.000-07:00

Alyson B. Stanfield's website http://artbizcoach.com/ is a goldmine of info. Her latest blog post http://www.artbizblog.com/ is on art auctions.

Artists receive frequent requests for donations. I only donate to causes that are important to me. While I prefer "artist friendly"* auctions I do donate to others, such as a recent one for a women's shelter, and of course to raise money for friends who are facing difficulties. .

* Artist friendly: reserve bid, promo for the artist, portion, at least 50% of the sale goes to artist.

I'll be donating this piece to an auction for a cause near and dear to me, the Jack Millikin Centre.

Cup: The Intimate Object VII

2011-10-30T07:27:00.000-07:00

A cup is the most intimate piece of pottery we use. Cradled in our hands, held by our fingers using a handle, there are so many ways people hold a drinking vessel. And then of course we raise it to our lips to take nourishment and comfort from the beverage.

Here are some delightful pieces on Charlie Cummings Gallery that illustrate the variety of mugs/ cups/ tumblers made as well as the imagination and skills of makers.

This mug by Sarah Jaeger is a favourite and I would love to add it to my collection. The graceful form begs to be held. I really like the colours and the decoration. This mug has a lot of happiness in it. I so enjoy drinking from handmade pots. It's like a visit with another potter.

Matt Long Workshop

2011-10-25T07:24:00.000-07:00

Lately I've been thinking about much I've benefitted from workshops that I've attended. There is no end to what can be done in ceramics and I'm grateful that others share their experience and knowledge. Matt Long is an incredible potter, storyteller and instructor.

I've been enjoying the tall Matt Long tumbler I purchased at the salt-firing workshop at Martin Tagseth's in May. It was the perfect vessel for iced coffee this hot summer. Now I drink water or hot coffee out of it. I would have really liked to purchase the mug below as well.

Here's Carole Epp's post: Musing about Mud.

Bob Reimer

2011-10-23T12:22:00.000-07:00

Just read about this loss to the ceramics community. Bob Reimer was a warm person and very knowledgeable about ceramics. Decades ago I saw a teapot of his that he slip-glazed using clay from his back yard (70 clay/ 30 neph sy). I really liked the form, the surface and the simple glaze formula. It was probably the first honest pot I ever saw.

I will always treasure the visit with him last year when he came to Medalta.

Good for chuckle

2011-10-23T12:09:00.000-07:00

Another slow day at the market. Had a good chuckle watching this video.

BBC video "Ceramics - A Fragile History"

2011-10-21T07:38:00.000-07:00

"No art form tells us more about our ordinary lives than ceramics" is the introduction to a wonderful video Ceramics - A Fragile History. I enjoyed the hiss of the draw ring, seeing Lucie Rie and Bernard Leach's "potters' nod". Great visuals and lots of information.

Above is an image of Lucie and her work.

Expectations and the genius of Bobby McFerrin

2011-10-17T06:58:00.000-07:00

Bobby McFerrin and the universal language of music.... a powerful video.
http://youtu.be/ne6tB2KiZuk

The "Madly Curious" Mama of Dada

2011-10-08T07:22:00.000-07:00

Since first reading of Beatrice Wood I've been intrigued. Beatrice was a true free spirit. Her approach to glazing was intuitive and experimental. Enjoy.

Guy Wolff's Steve Jobs story

2011-10-06T07:38:00.000-07:00

Guy Wolff is a traditional potter who lives in Bantam, Connecticut who makes a lot of flowerpots for historical gardens. He apprenticed at older shops in North Carolina, Wales and Northern England.

Guy posted the following on Facebook:

"A decade back I had a great article in Horticulture magazine on my garden flowerpots and the day it dropped I got a phone call from Steve asking if his plantsman could come for a visit so we could plan out some pots for his garden . The visit was made and the pots started but with the size of the order and size of the pots the order took the greater part of the season to get going on and with humidity I became bogged down . Clinton was in office and Steve called to ask what my email was so he could keep abreast on his order . Being a potter my answer was "What is Email"? Steve very kindly offered me one of his computers but at the time I had no idea how helpful this would have been for keeping my unorganized shop a little more together and the size of the gift seemed undeserved . Since then I have taught myself how to use his machines for designing pots here in Connecticut and making them all over the world .OH .. and I have just made a folk music CD using nothing but Garageband and planed to send Steve and Lauraine a copy to thank him for all he has done for home made music. Thanks Steve for your kindness to me."

Ceramics Now

2011-10-04T08:38:00.000-07:00

Carole Epp is featured in an interview in Ceramics Now. I have always been intrigued by Carole's sculptural pieces. She is really pushing boundaries, communicating her concerns and ideas through her work. And she is one of the most delightful people I know.

Check out her blog where she brings the world of ceramics to you.

Here's a pic of Carole and her pal Brendan Tang at her opening at the Mendel Art Gallery

Creat8 .. Saskatchewan Craft Council's members exhibiton

2011-09-29T07:47:00.000-07:00

There will be lots of interesting, well made fine craft at this exhibition at the Saskatchewan Craft Council's Infinity Gallery -- and it's all for sale.

The piece featured on the invitation of one of Paula Cooley's creations. I've known Paula since the mid 90's when we were students together. She has really grown as an artist...always exploring new techniques and very dedicated to her craft.

I'll have a drum and this plate in the show. Hope you can come to the reception on Oct. 20, 5 - 7 p.m. and meet the artists.

Mr. Gould to the piano please

2011-09-26T11:37:00.000-07:00

My father was a fan of big band music so I listened to a lot of Glenn Miller, songs like In the Mood. While I'm glad I was introduced to that music at an early age I missed out on classical music. Thanks to CBC I've been able to listen, learn about and appreciate classical music.

It will be a real treat to listen the "other Glenn", on CBC's upcoming series on Glenn Gould. Thank you CBC. Here is a video of Gould playing the Goldberg Variations.

Imagine -- Emmanuel Kelly, The X Factor Auditions

2011-09-22T11:10:00.000-07:00

Imagine is a song that has deep personal meaning to me. This version is sung by teenaged Emmanual, orphaned and born in a war zone in Iraq. I do believe that we are one and that we can live that way.

Emmanual has been axed from the Australian X Factor competition but Yoko Ono put up his Imagine performance on her web site and told the young singer her late husband would have been proud of him.

The lyrics were printed on a friend's memorial card and we sang the song over and over at his wake.

Imagine there's no Heaven
It's easy if you try
No hell below us
Above us only sky
Imagine all the people
Living for today

Imagine there's no countries
It isn't hard to do
Nothing to kill or die for
And no religion too
Imagine all the people
Living life in peace

You may say that I'm a dreamer
But I'm not the only one
I hope someday you'll join us
And the world will be as one

Imagine no possessions
I wonder if you can
No need for greed or hunger
A brotherhood of man
Imagine all the people
Sharing all the world

You may say that I'm a dreamer
But I'm not the only one
I hope someday you'll join us
And the world will live as one

Wise Words from Jim Malone

2011-09-21T06:56:00.000-07:00

June Perry posted this video of Jim Malone. June has a great blog...you will be inspired in the studio, the garden and the kitchen.

I totally agree with her comments about the video. Great quotes, images and philosophy. The best pots are born not made.

Enjoy.

We are what we eat off of

2011-09-19T16:40:00.000-07:00

These last few months of abundance from the garden were enhanced by the "collection" in my kitchen. This July I visited Mary Fox and purchased one of her peasantware bowls. Yes, food does look and taste better when served in a hand crafted vessel. The colour of the glaze isn't quite right so do take a look at the peasantware link on her portfolio. I really like how the bare clay feels and I enjoy the sparkling mica on the exterior. Mary said it develops a patina and becomes more lovely over time.

There will be a lot of gatherings coming up where we celebrate with friends, family and food. Why not make it a tradition to use unique, handmade ceramics? It's like having the artisan join you.

This thought provoking article by Shax Riegler, author of Dish, (I want this book) is well worth reading. There are links to other websites so enjoy the eye candy.
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424053111903285704576561151124373060.html?mod=WSJ_LifeStyle_Lifestyle_6

Ellen Mulligan commented: "Handmade ceramics truly can change the temper of a day, and the potter joins us at the table and sets the tone."
Here's a platter I made and soda fired at Medalta.

Cats Walk Alone

2011-09-16T06:22:00.000-07:00

I found this article useful and hope you do as well.

Cats Walk Alone

by Carolyn Henderson

We can, however, choose to be superb artists, whether or not we are invited into the middle of the circle -- and indeed, the likelihood that we reach our potential as artists increases when we decrease our dependence upon the group, the group's policies, the group's likes and dislikes, the group's approbation or censure. [...]

Read the rest of this article at:
http://fineartviews.com/blog/34972/cats-walk-alone

----------------------------------------------
This excerpt appears courtesy of FineArtViews Art Marketing Newsletter by FASO,
a free email newsletter about art, marketing, inspiration and fine living for artists,
collectors and galleries (and anyone else who loves art).

For a complimentary subscription, visit: http://www.fineartviews.com

-----------------------------------------------

Dark Eyes by Cam Neufeld

2011-04-22T21:29:00.000-07:00

Wow, Cam and the band do a great job. This is a fun video with music to move to. Throughout the years I've know Cam he had grown and developed as a musician. His travels to Turkey and Asia did good things for his music. http://youtu.be/HDdBbmbe3QI

Check this out and enjoy more good music: http://www.reverbnation.com/camneufeld

Forgetfulness by Billy Collins

2011-04-22T18:58:00.000-07:00

animation by Julian Grey.

"Drifted out of a love poem you used to know by heart". I so enjoy hearing a poet read their work.

I trust I'll never forget how to swim or ride a bike. I do forget authors names and book titles.
http://youtu.be/wrEPJh14mcU

another teabowl video

2011-04-22T07:07:00.000-07:00

I really like how Dirtkicker makes a very controlled form then loosens up by cutting the rim to undulate it and then carries on having fun decorating.
http://youtu.be/3UcQixHxpVM

Some of the tools such as the cutting wire with green handles and the stick with balls on the ends are from http://www.mudtools.com/

I think teabowls are a form that I will need to make 1000 of before I am competent. So grateful that I'm a potter and can send myself on this quest.

Matcha Chawan Teabowl, Trimming etc. by Cory Lum

2011-04-16T21:25:00.000-07:00

This will be a good exercise for me to loosen up my throwing and trimming just in time for a salt fire workshop. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f64J6C48ZSo

Be kind to yourself and watch this.

2011-04-08T23:29:00.001-07:00

Kitchen Makeover

2011-03-31T21:58:00.000-07:00

I wanted to enter a kitchen makeover contest but I seemed to be in the wrong time zone. Leaving things to the last minute!!! Here's my pitch:

When I purchased my house it didn't have a kitchen! No sink, stove, fridge, counters or cupboards. The kitchen had been taken out by the previous owner when the maple flooring was installed. It was difficult to figure out how to proceed since what I wanted was over budget.

The kitchen space is 2.8 meters from the windows to the wall (where the stove, fridge, cart and small metal unit are) and 3 meters long. There are a few design challenges, one being the slope of the stairs to the basement (seen under the table at the far end of the photo).

My goal is to create an efficient, simple, pleasant working space with places to display china inherited from my ancestors and my collection of contemporary pottery made by myself and other ceramic artists.

Comfortable work space is limited to 8.32 square feet of counter height on three different surfaces, which because of lack of storage also have a kettle, dirty dishes (the dishwasher pictured is nonfunctional), etc. Many items are stored in the basement and in a purchased pantry presently beside the metal stand.

Being able to have pull out shelves to store pots, pans, appliances, etc. will help me prepare food to daily meals along with processing the harvest from my home and community gardens.

Easy to use storage for recyclables, a pantry, cupboards, a quiet energy efficient dishwasher, and better lighting will help me be organized, productive and enjoy working in my new kitchen.

Children's Pottery Classes

2011-03-02T17:17:00.000-08:00

Nancy Gallagher's pottery blog

2011-02-25T19:10:00.000-08:00

I've been enjoying Nancy Gallagher's blog. It's very informative and I like her pottery. This is an image of Nancy's engobe and sgrafitto decorated teapot. I'm looking forward to seeing a picture of the glazed piece.

Squared Lasagna Dish

2011-02-25T16:58:00.000-08:00

Bill Van Gilder gives excellent instructions for this project. The idea of making lines to indicate where handles will be placed was an "ah ha" moment for me.

Multi-Sectional Vases

2011-02-24T07:22:00.000-08:00

Another great video from John Britt

Winterfestival Juried Art Show, Mann Gallery, Prince Albert

2011-02-24T06:24:00.000-08:00

Each February the Mann Art Gallery, formerly the Art Gallery of Prince Albert, gives local and regional artists the opportunity to exhibit their work in an exhibition during Winter Festival. All the work is shown; the juried pieces are exhibited in the main gallery and the rest are displayed in the Fringe and Studio Galleries. The juried art is up until March 27.

The juror this year was Sandra Fraser, Associate Curator, Extension Coordinator at the Mendel Art Gallery

Since the mid '90s when I was an Applied Art, Ceramics student at Woodland Campus I've entered work in the exhibition. Bonnie Bailey was also in the program. She started before me and was warm and welcoming. I was thrilled when she was awarded the ceramics prize for the second year in a row. Here she is with her winning pit fired piece. While I no longer live in Prince Albert I enjoy taking part and reconnecting with the vibrant arts community there.

Mel Bolen received second prize for his beautiful salt fired vessel. Mel is also known for his decorative gas fired ceramics. Some day I will acquire one of his art pieces, but for now, I'll have to be content with the mug and plate in my "collection".

Both my pieces are in the juried show. "Refuge", shown on the left, was purchased by someone I knew from my days in P.A. I know she will give it a good home. The other piece is a soda fired drum.

Prairie Excellence Exhibition -- June Jacobs featured artist

2011-02-23T21:42:00.000-08:00

The exhibition, Prairie Excellence, at the Affinity Gallery, 813 Broadway Avenue, Saskatoon, will be closing on February 27th. If you haven't already seen it, it's an incredible show. I'll be back at least once more before it closes to spend more time enjoying all the pieces.

Above is June Jacobs' sculptural hand felted piece "About the Process" which was selected for Prairie Excellence.

June Jacobs has been active in Saskatchewan crafts for more than thirty years in a variety of capacities, including fibre artist and exhibitor. She has owned and operated The Handwave Gallery in Meacham, Sk for 28 years. As well, she is an educator, mentor, workshop participant, adjucator and juror, an active Saskatchewan Craft Council and CARFAC Saskatchewan member, president and member of the Saskatchewan Professional Art Gallery Association, as well as a member of fibre guilds. She also coordinates many arts related activities and is dedicated to her art practice.

June has recently completed 3 art residencies: Banff, Vallauris, France and Quebec City. 
Recent exhibitions include Body Skins, A.I.R.Vallauris, France 2008; The Eye of the Hurricane, Convergence 2008 Tampa Bay, Florida,: Interface 2009, Mysteria Gallery, Regina; Unity and Diversity, Cheongju International Craft Biennalel 2009, South Korea; Plein des Bras, Contemporary Textile Museum, Montreal, Quebec Dec’09 and Jan ‘10

Saskatchewan Craft Council, Puck Janes, ceramic artist

2011-02-23T09:55:00.000-08:00

The Saskatchewan Craft Council has a new website. http://www.saskcraftcouncil.org/

There is lots of good information in the easy to navigate website. Enjoy the eye candy in the Membership Directory. Here's an example of what you'll find there:

Puck Janes is a ceramic artist who I went to school with. We both spent a lot of time testing glazes and Puck has developed a wide palette of surface decoration. She celebrates the Prairies with her stunning landscape pieces.

Greenlandish/Danish Ceramics by Gukki Møller

2011-02-16T05:01:00.000-08:00

Over the past 15 years since we were students together Gukki Møller has really developed his large ceramic pieces.

Back then Gukki was working on double walled vessels and employed precise, interesting surface decoration. I'm thrilled with what how the seed of his ideas has grown.

His heritage is very

important to him. It's

wonderful to see it

celebrated in his work.

John Britt throws a bowl

2011-02-13T10:32:00.000-08:00

If you ever have a change to take a workshop with John Britt DO. Last year at MISSA John really added to my experience there even though I wasn't in his class. He's fun, creative and freely shares his vast knowledge of ceramics.SS

Marcel...delightful

2011-02-10T06:46:00.000-08:00

Faceted Bowl

2011-01-31T19:41:00.000-08:00

I'll give this a try, but will add my own twist. Don't think I've ever used a round trimming tool or have seen anyone else use as many different trimming tools as I do.

BBC The Craft of the Potter, part 1

2011-01-31T05:17:00.000-08:00

With decorating master Alan Caiger Smith

Handbuilt Tumbler

2011-01-31T05:07:00.000-08:00

Charan makes wonderful, colourful pots. He's a generous soul as well; he shares a lot of his techniques on his blog and esty shop. Here's one I really enjoyed.

Check out his Esty shop for more of his delightful work go to http://www.etsy.com/shop/creativewithclay and visit http://www.creativewithclay.com/

In Love with the Mystery -- Ann Mortifee

2011-01-26T06:58:00.000-08:00

Inspiring, beauty full, wise and comforting. Ann received a calendar featuring Indian sage Paramahansa Yogananda from her husband, musician Paul Horn which was the seed of her new book and cd.

"Do not be afraid of losing your way.....wait, and a miracle will appear".

Living with Nature, employment opportunity

2011-01-19T06:54:00.000-08:00

From Elizabeth Bekolay,
elizabethbekolay@yahoo.ca
Living with Nature Network - - I have just been approved for funding to hire 2 people to help with the ecological salvage work this summer. See below and attached for all the details of the projects.

I need one more person starting end of April.

Please recommend this to anyone who is:

- Age 17 - 30 years (funding requirement)

- Has NOT been on EI (funding requirement)

- looking for meaningful employment for the summer (minimum wage with potential for increase, 30hrs/wk)

- is keen about local biodiversity and sustainability

- has a valid driver's license

- can work long hours in all conditions

- doesn't mind mosquitoes and blackflies

Thank you,

Elizabeth Bekolay

Lichen Nature

2011-01-19T06:30:00.000-08:00

Elizabeth Bekolay created a beautiful garden with native plants for me. She also has employment opportunities. Email her at adopt_an_ecosystem@yahoo.ca for the services she provides as I can't figure out how to add them to this post. a the website when it's set up. Visit her website, www.lichennature.ca when it is completed.

www.lichennature.ca

Artist Resale Rights

2011-01-19T04:54:00.000-08:00

To find out more about artist resale rights:

http://www.carfac.sk.ca/?s=artistsfees&p=arr

Canadian artists, if you aren't already a member of CARFAC http://www.carfac.ca what's stopping you?

Creativity YouTube

2011-01-16T21:54:00.000-08:00

Just "discovered" Jay Smooth http://www.illdoctrine.com/. Really like the quotes he collected and shares on this video:

Gillian Jug Birds

2011-01-16T09:23:00.000-08:00

Gillian shares her method of creating wonderful, colourful slip decorated jug birds.

http://picasaweb.google.com/jugbird/GillianMakingJugbirds#

Horses at Play

2011-01-14T08:25:00.000-08:00

Two WWOOFERS (willing workers on organic farms) who are currently at Carol Mariott's Ravenheart Farms http://www.ravenheartfarms.com/have created this lovely youtube horse video (below) a few days ago, when they captured on camera the horses at play. It's really a sweet video to watch and enjoy! May it bring peace to your heart and a smile on your face.

Health Meditation in Saskatoon

2011-01-07T17:29:00.000-08:00

Workshop in four sessions

with Francine Niekus

Learn simple concentration and breathing techniques to create calm and focus in your life!

Location: Yoga Mat Studio, #4-501 Gray Ave, Saskatoon

Time: Saturday mornings: 11.15-12 15 pm

Dates: January 8, February 12, March 12, April 9

Fee: donation only

The Workshop

During the workshop we will focus on learning and practicing the techniques of health meditation (see below). The goal is to create for oneself a set of practices best suited to one's individual need and aspiration, and get started. There will be opportunity each session to ask questions and share and discuss your experience with other participants. You will be provided with handouts describing all practices in detail.

To register email: sask.meditation@gmail.com

for more info: http://www.saskmeditation.ca/

Image of Nobel Peace Prize nominee,Thich Nhat Hanh, who wrote:

The function of meditation practice is to heal and transform. Meditation helps us to be whole, and to look deeply into ourselves and around us in order to realize what is really there. The energy that is used in meditation is mindfulness; to look deeply is to use mindfulness to light up the recesses of our mind, or to look into the heart of things in order to see their true nature. When mindfulness is present, meditation is present. Mindfulness helps us to understand the true essence of the object of meditation (whether it is a perception, an emotion, an action, a reaction, the presence of a person or object).

It may be possible for you to meditate on your own, without a teacher or a Sangha, a community of practice. But it goes without saying that to practice with a teacher and a meditation community is more advisable and much easier. A teacher is someone who has had the experience of the practice, and has succeeded in it. A Sangha is a meditation community where everyone follows more or less the same kind of practice. Since everyone is doing the same practice, it becomes easier for you to practice too, because the group energy emitted by the Sangha is strong and very supportive. You can also learn a great deal from individual members of the Sangha. There are many things you may find difficult to do when alone, but in the presence of the Sangha you can do them easily.

Paul Soldier

2011-01-04T12:36:00.001-08:00

Paul Soldier, artist and inventor, died on Monday. He'll be remember for his creativity, his contribution to the ceramics community and his controversial ads.

http://www.latimes.com/news/obituaries/la-me-paul-soldner-20110104,0,42646.story

I love CBC

2010-12-15T19:11:00.000-08:00

Another Potter from the Medalta Residency

2010-08-02T23:41:00.000-07:00

Gillian McMillan, a potter from Port Moody, British Columbia, was at the Medalta residency as well. Check out her recent post on her blog as well as previous ones http://www.gillianmcmillan.com/blog/

Gill is a skilled thrower who enjoys assembling birds and other vessels from thrown pieces. Typically working with earthenware and coloured slips, she successfully explored salt firing at during her residency.

Gill's homage to the beehive kilns.

Fun in the Hat

2010-07-31T22:43:00.000-07:00

Besides creating and firing we had a lot of fun. Here's Les Manning directing the event. Jo sure could go. She even toured the studio on her John Deere. And Les Manning and Robin DuPont heading their own ways.

Claude Morin on the pitchers' gravel. Beehive kilns and spectators.

Add caption

Luann, our wonderful games coordinator. I hadn't laughed so much in a long time. She introduced us the the world famous toilet paper games.

Installation art. Assignment, cover two people in your group.

Pre last task...fill the garbage bags.

More on Medalta

2010-07-31T22:17:00.000-07:00

"At one time I would have considered this* a failure but now I see the beauty in it".
*kiln blob on the left.. This is Sujin's piece and her words.

Soda fired Smudge pot for the beautiful Grandmother sage in Medicine Hat.

Some pots of mine soda fired in Robin DuPont's kiln. Reduction with slow cool...notice the carbon trap along the edge and yummy soda on the left.

Potters' Paradise

2010-07-31T21:49:00.000-07:00

In June I had the good fortune to be an artist in residence at http://www.medalta.org/miair/index.html

It was one of the best experiences of my life. These are images of the soda kiln I fired (my new addiction) and some drums I made.

Here's an article I wrote for Sediments, Sask Terra 's newsletter.

Fourteen ceramic artists from across North America took part in the Medalta International Artists in Residence program (MIAIR) at the Shaw Centre in the Historic Clay District in Medicine Hat during June 2010. http://www.medalta.org/miair/index.html.

The calendar was full of events. Presentations by residents, staff, and local artists and discussions and sharing of information were an important part of the residency. We were treated to true western hospitality which included a trip to Red Rock Coulee, a unique geological formation. Tours of the Medalta Museum, Hycroft, and the IXL brick making plant. Six ceramics exhibitions, including Clay Diversions, a show of residents’ previous work, took place in Medicine Hat during the month. A gallery walk introduced us to the local art scene. An open house was held the last evening. Displays of work were well received by numerous visitors.

Each person worked on their own projects. For example, onjji, traditional Korean storage vessels, were made on a kick-wheel, using coil and paddling technique by Sukjin Choi, an assistant art professor living in Virginia. Gillian McMillian focused on salt firing functional vessels that celebrates her fondness for birds http://www.gillianmcmillan.com/blog/ while Leigh Merritt from New Brunswick focused on cone six crystalline glazes. Robin DuPont, the invited artist in residence, slow cooled porcelain wares in soda firings. The results are spectacular: carbon trapping, crystal growth, dripping glass-like soda deposits and “frosty” glazes. These are only of few examples of the rich stimulating environment and bodies of work produced.

Sculptural pieces were explored in various ways. One person created a number of fun but with a shadow side birds. Another resident sculpted tall forms influenced by the landscape and the resident bull snake. Historic saggars were used as slump molds by Luann Johnson, an ACAD student, She also employed found objects on site as inspiration to inform her exuberant work.

The facility is well equipped with electronic kilns, a gas car kiln, soda and salt kilns, as well as a bourrey box wood fired kiln. There is a well equipped glaze room with a state-of-the-art spray booth and ventilation system. Sand blaster, slab rollers, and extruder were also available for use. Aaron Nelson's (Artistic Director) vision and organizational capabilities, ensured a positive experience for all. (http://www.medalta.org/miair/a_nelson.html) Studio manager, Jenn Demke-Lange, patiently and pleasantly accommodated our requests.

A record number of firings took place over the month. Heavy, light and residual salt firings yielded spectacular results. The soda kiln was also fired successfully to cones 6 and 10, residually, as well as with a mixture of soda ash, whiting and baking soda and cooled in a variety of ways.

Two Sask Terra members participated in this opportunity. Claude Morin made playful sculpture creatures as well as functional wares, much of which was fired in the salt kiln. His enthusiasm and positive outlook were appreciated, as was the large thermos of coffee he brought every morning. Drums and rattles were wheel-thrown byTeresa Gagne. Her passion for vapour firings continued as she tested surfaces in soda, salt and wood kilns.

It was rare for someone not to be at the studio at any hour of the day. Weekend parties, games, laughter and barbecues provided balance and fuel for creative juices. This rich learning experience and creative hiatus from everyday life has been a highlight of the participants’ art practice.

Financial Independence and Irregular Incomes

2010-02-02T19:22:00.000-08:00

Good advice from Rick DiBiasio. It's always eye-opening to keep track of all expenses (business and personal). Click here to read the article, Financial Independence and Irregular Incomes.

Setting aside 10% of your income, or tithing yourself, is a good discipline, and no doubt will come in handy

Wood Fired Pots in Wildwood

2009-09-23T06:32:00.000-07:00

Christian Barr and Enzien Kufeld are woodfirers living near Wildwood, Alberta. I first met them at Fred Olsen's kiln building workshop in 1998. Since then, they have lived their passion, building kilns and firing often. They have travelled and worked with some of the best, including Jack Troy.

They are having a sale Sept. 26 - Oct. 4th at their beautiful place located approximately 115 km west of Edmonton on hwy 16 (9 km west of Wildwood), turn south on RR102, 250 metres. GST will be covered by them.

I love their work and a road trip at this lovely time of year seems in order. I just broke a mug yesterday...time to get another. Winter is coming and these would be great vessels to sit, drink something warm and contemplate with.

And for scotch drinkers...

I have a feeling one of these offering bowls will find its way home with me.

All this and much more at Urban Forest Design/Wildwood Pottery.

Moose Jaw, In the Vault

2009-09-20T06:25:00.000-07:00

Earlier this month Sask Terra www.saskterra.sk.ca held a social in Moose Jaw which included a trip to the vault of the Moose Jaw Museum and Art Gallery
http://www.mjmag.ca/artgalleryexhibits.htm

Recently there had been large donations from Richard Stafford's collection as well and David Thauberger and his wife (sorry, I forget her first name). David mentioned that their recent acquisition was a Hansen Ross pot they bought at a garage sale the day of the opening of A Way with Clay: Folmer Hansen and David Ross.

Above is an image of Cara Gay Driscoll with two of her pots that were recently donated to the permanent collection. Cara is well know for her coiled pots; she took a workshop from Richard Zane Smith http://www.wyandot.org/rzsmith.html years ago and has been coiling away since.

Here's a pic of Heather Smith, curator of the art gallery with a Jack Sures' pot from the permanent collection.

Goblets

2009-08-11T22:50:00.000-07:00

The first time I made goblets they turned out rather poorly -- and the glaze even crawled. Thought I'd give up until I adopted a fun approach goblet making. Pictured above are two "rattle goblets". Small balls of clay rolled in cornstarch are inserted into the stems before joining the bowl; a bit of cornstarch is funneled into the stem to prevent them from sticking together. Now hundreds of goblets later (and a few blown up in the bisque) I'm refining the design, using different glazes and enjoying myself. Cheers!

Getting Real

2009-07-29T07:32:00.000-07:00

If I had a copy of The Velveteen Rabbit I'd reread it now.

Sharing this article with you -- it's a good one.

"The Law of Attraction In Action with Eva" - 1 new article

By Eva Gregory, CPCC

Talk seems to be plentiful about "getting real" and "keeping it real" these says. But what exactly does that mean? One of the definitions of the word real is "being or occurring in fact or actuality; not imaginary or ideal." So basically, the talk is about dealing with what actually exists and not putting a happy spin on things. While it is definitely a good idea to know what is going on around you, being real is not the complete solution. Striving for your ideal, your passion, and your purpose -- is. Comprehension of the present situation helps lay the foundation for the ideas that follow, but your present is just that. Dreams are imaginary until you've put action and purpose to them to make them become realities. A goal is nothing more than that until it has been achieved.

How many instances can you recall of people who made incredible contributions to society based upon their acknowledgement of their reality, and their fierce dedication to the pursuit of their passion and desire to change said reality? They weren't afraid to stray from conventions and follow their own course. Think of something on a smaller scale, like Sadie Hawkins Day. Granted this day was created in the comic strips, but it was such a novel idea that it caught on in real life more than half a century ago. It was a huge thing for a female to ask a male out on a date. The creation of such a day alleviated the stigma and made it perfectly fine for a girl to ask a boy out. Think of the possible ripple-effects of such an esteem-building event. Women feeling free enough to take more of an active role. Think of how many lives have been shaped by something that was not real, but an idea conjured up by a writer. On a larger scale, look at the United States. This country was founded by people willing to break free of the norm, willing to embrace their passion and create a new reality. Our forefathers were definitely not lacking in purpose.

Your dreams may not have as widespread an impact, but they are just as important. Aren't you worth having a life full of purpose and rich with passion? No one should be stuck in reality, unable to allow yourself to each beyond your present towards a future full of passion and purpose. Take a lesson from someone you admire. Very few people reach their desired goal without first dreaming of how to get there. Even if your dream seems farfetched, never be afraid to step outside of the box. Real need not be a path on the straight and narrow, but a journey to destinations only you can chart.

Take some time in the coming month to review where you've traveled and determine if or how it differs from where you want to be. Remember it all starts with you. What are your dreams and goals? Explore them, learn them, list them, and make them real too. You can achieve reality, but only if you're real and honest enough with yourself to determine what it is you really feel passionate about. Just have fun with it and remember to keep it purposeful.

WANT TO USE THIS ARTICLE IN YOUR E-ZINE OR WEB SITE?
You're welcome to use this article online as long as it remains complete and unaltered (including the "About The Author" info below:)

About the Author:
Eva Gregory, CPCC, is a master coach, speaker and author of several programs and books including The Feel Good Guide to Prosperity. She has instructed tens of thousands in person, on the radio and in teleconferences, seminars and workshops on how to deliberately create a life by design using the Law of Attraction. As co-host of The Jeanna and Eva Show and The Law of Attraction Show on Exceptional Wisdom Radio, she has interviewed some of the most powerfully successful motivational experts today. Her new book, Life Lessons for Mastering the Law of Attraction, co-authored with Jack Canfield, Mark Victor Hanson and Jeanna Gabellini, can be found in bookstores everywhere.

Copyright @2009 Eva Gregory. All rights reserved.

Wood Fired Pots

2009-07-26T07:56:00.000-07:00

Here are some pots I made using the "squishing method" I learned from the late David Miller. The pots, which are in the Art Gallery of Prince Albert's permanent collection, were tumble stacked and fired in the kiln that Randy Woolsey built in Ruddell.

The aura around the shells is from St. Rose Red clay (yum!). Thanks to Christian Barr of Wildwood, Alberta for bringing that clay and suggestions how to use it.

Wood Fired Kiln Opening

2009-07-25T17:24:00.000-07:00

Pots, big and small, along with the potters.

My neighbour, Robert (who participated in the firing), and I are off to Meacham tomorrow for the kiln opening of the anagama kiln "L'agamine"1 pm, Charley Farrero's studio, 2nd avenue, Meacham. You don't have to be a potter to enjoy this. Join us if you'd like and check back later for pics of the event.

Here's a pic of Sharon Esler and John Boyd stoking the kiln.

Tile Commission

2009-07-25T16:42:00.000-07:00

Here's part of a tile commission I've been working on. The tiles sure take up a lot of space in the kiln. The whole process has been a enjoyable learning experience...and I've even made notes for future projects.

This section is on the north wall and is about 28 inches across and 15 inches high; the tiles on the west wall are just less than 100 inches wide and 15 inches high. It is for a back splash for a paper maker's sink. I'm looking forward to the finished project.

Folded Pots -- soft slab construction

2009-05-22T09:31:00.003-07:00

I first stared making "folded pots" after seeing a Lana Wilson video. Check out her work if you aren't familiar with it. She and her work are delightful.
http://www.lanawilson.com /old/index.html

Years later I thought I might be "copying" but on viewing the video again I was pleased to realize that Lana influenced me and that I had made this technique my own, with variations on her method, etc.

The lichen glaze is one from Lana and is mostly lithium with a bit of chrome. It is brownish /purple where thick and can be lime green where thick -- see a touch of green on the handle on the right. Her glaze book is available for purchase...go to above link.

“FOLDED POTS” WORKSHOP

This workshop is offered at your facility or my studio.

- half day or full day workshop === full day is better
- no previous clay experience required

“Folded pots” are fun and exciting to make. You will create a unique vessel using a simple technique. Soft slab construction will be used to handbuild the pot. Mugs, pitchers and baskets are some of the vessels you can make using this method. Texture, along with additions such as handles and feet will be explored. Surface treatments will be discussed. You will learn some new tricks and tips. A handout with glaze and engobe recipes, etc. will be provided. Interested? Contact me at tgpots@yahoo.ca

The purple and green pot has green terra sigillata made from ball clay and green stain. It was refired with
a purple patina. Patina is equal parts frit 3134 and
epk with added stains. The texture was imprinted from a 25 cent garage sale tablecloth.

Kilburn Hall - Workshops with Youth

2009-05-12T09:14:00.000-07:00

One of the highlights of my life was giving two workshops at Kilburn Hall, a youth detention centre -- the first with young women, the second with young men . At the beginning of the day, one of the females remarked that she's "no good at this" ... and the end of the day she was very proud of her creation. I hope a seed was planted and she knows that she is capable of many things.

Here's a report written by Amanda Bosiak for the Saskatchewan Craft Council Newsletter:

"Masks allow a person to present a different face to the world. They can simultaneously hide a person’s appearance while revealing their inner nature.

When potters Teresa Gagne and Carole Epp developed a ceramics workshop at the Kilburn Hall Youth Centre, they settled on making masks as the ideal expression of creativity for the youths who have run afoul of the law.

The girls who worked with Gagne and Epp to mold clay into expressions of themselves chose to create masks expressing laughter (a clown), tradition (the trickster), and a harmony with nature (animals).

For many of the youth who come to Kilburn Hall, the programming provided there is often their first exposure to the crafts associated with their culture. The arts and culture programming provided there attempts to help these youth discover more positive ways with which to direct their youthful energies. In presenting workshops at Kilburn Hall, Epp feels she is offering the youth the opportunity to see options other than criminal behavior for their future and that craft can be a rewarding and potentially lucrative part of their lives. The goal says Epp, is “they see they can channel those positive things and build a life that's full of that creative spirit."

Because many of the youth at Kilburn are of First Nations origins, much of the programming is centered on First Nations culture. However, Kilburn Hall's Cultural Coordinator Adonica Anwieler feels it is important to educate the youth on their connection to all cultures and to have support from outside the facility. The clay mask workshops relate well with the existing cultural programming. "Traditional aboriginal people used material from the earth… [so we tied the art of clay] into the traditional teaching of giving back when we take from the earth,” explained Anwieler. “We made tobacco offerings and smudged to cleanse any negative energy before we began."

"It's been amazing," Anwieler says, "besides what it does for the facility it's great for the youth. The goal is to get them to participate and learn and have a creative outlet because they have so much time on their hands and it's important they have positive ways to use it."

Kilburn Hall Youth Centre is a secure custody youth facility in the city of Saskatoon, which holds males and females age 12-17 on remand or sentence. Three years ago, the Saskatchewan Craft Council received funding from the Cameco Caring Community Grant to implement a pilot project in soapstone carving at the facility, where members of the SCC could come in and contribute to Kilburn Hall's existing Cultural Programming, which focuses on Art, Culture and Healing. Funding from Cameco for the program has since continued making last year's weaving workshops and this year's clay mask workshops possible."

Clay Playdays

2009-04-17T06:31:00.000-07:00

Creating with Clay

Have you ever wanted to reconnect with your inner mudpie-making child or perhaps play with clay for the first time? I approach clay in a fun & creative way and love to share my passion for pottery with others. Individualized instruction, designed to meet your schedule and desires, is offered to groups of up to four people at a time in my well-equipped pottery studio.

On Family Day, a family came and had a great time making LOTS of pots. Here's the dad, a luthier, with his clay guitar.
The daughter went on a pendant making frenzy; the black object ... saddlebags her dad made (for his mini motorcycle).

Whether you want to spend only a few hours exploring make a mask, or two days a week making a variety of pots using many methods, a program can be designed to suit you. Handbuilt projects could include decorative masks, shields or utilitarian objects such as smudge pots, rattles, mugs, plates and bowls. A basic familiarity with the techniques used in handbuilding – pinch, coil and slab –is easily acquired. Your creativity, coupled with these skills, will allow you to discover the joys of creating with clay and explore the endless possibilities that clay offers. Handbuilding provides a strong foundation for wheel throwing.

Instruction is also available on the potter’s wheel. Beginners will be taught how to centre the clay and make cylinders such as drinking vessels vases as well as bowls. Decoration can include texture, carving, incising, coloured slips and underglazes and so on. All glazes used are non-toxic and food safe. Those with experience will have the opportunity to refine their skills and learn a variety of intermediate and advanced techniques such as altering, throwing with additions, etc.

Ruddell is situated on rolling prairie/agricultural land about a one-hour drive from Saskatoon and twenty-five minutes from North Battleford. It is peaceful place. The studio is equipped potters wheels, slab roller and lots of tools and has a great view of the North Saskatchewan River valley.

Fees are reasonable, exchanges possible. Accommodations are available. For more information call Teresa at 306-389-2040 or email tgpots@yahoo.ca

Art Auctions

2009-04-16T11:26:00.000-07:00

Coming up May 2nd is an Art Auction and dance in support of the Jack Millikin Centre. http://www.jackmillikincentre.com/ Set in the boreal forest, the Centre will feature a dance hall with a horse hair dance floor, a centre for forest research and learning and a large work area for artists to develop a year-round artisan learning centre.

The auction and dance will be a lot of fun. Kudos to all the volunteers who make these events happen. I'll have two pieces up for auction, including Sister Water Snake (above), which celebrates all the incredible women born in the year of the snake in 53/54; we are now 55/56.

Art Auctions can be a win-win situation. Artists are frequently asked to donate their work. In my experience, it is wise to choose which ones to participate in...ones that benefit a cause you support, give you the opportunity to benefit financially and promote you and your art practice. Given the choice of setting a reserve bid and a choice of how much you want to donate of the winning bid is respectful of the artist and gives us an opportunity to participate in a number of auctions.

CARFAC has a number of "best practices". Here's the link for the Art Auctions information: www.bestpracticestandards.ca/docs/1_standardsdrafts/Best_Practice_Standards-Artists_Work___Fundraising_REV_2008-12-17.pdf

What's Going On

2009-04-16T08:49:00.000-07:00

The spring Saskatoon Potters Guild Sale and Exhibition is coming up May 2, 9 - 9 and 3, 9 - 5, at the Albert Community Centre, 11th Street and Clarence Avenue. Pottery demonstrations, door prizes and a variety of pots by SPG members.

Here's a picture of my chattered blue bowl that received the Best Functional Award last year. The theme of this years exhibition is "Multiples" and I'm looking forward to seeing what people come up with.

Trying new things and having lots of fun. I'm excited about my recent work.

Designing My Life and Labyrinths

2008-06-29T13:35:00.000-07:00

Back in December I joined the Clutter Busting Coaching Circle with coach Vicky White. It has been a great experience and I've benefited enormously. Lots of support, wisdom, ideas from the other members. Integrity Days, Creativity Days, phone forums and more. It is one of the best things I've ever done for myself. For more info on Life Design Strategies: http://www.profcs.com/app/?af=725280

In March I was thrilled to have a post about labyrinths on Vicky's blog. That's what sparked my interest in starting a blog. Here's the post: http://lifedesignstrategies.com/blog/?p=46 .

And here's the last post in Vicky's blog. www.LifeDesignStrategies.com/blog/
This past week we were challenged to do something we haven't done before. I decided it was high time to finally get this blog ready for the world. Now I'm off to do a few things I've never done before.

bright blessings,
Teresa

On a Lark

2008-06-28T22:05:00.000-07:00

Last summer I submitted slides for Lark Books's 500 Plates and Chargers and Pile of Autumn Leaves was accepted.

These plates were made by draping slabs of stoneware clay over light fixtures which were used as molds. A little cornstarch helped release the clay from the glass. After bisque firing the plates where dipped in a high iron glaze. The leaf design was applied using liquid wax resist. When the wax was dry the plates were dipped into a rutile glaze and fired to cone 5 (1185 degrees Celsius) with a slow cool down.

It took an experienced art photographer quite a while to set up the shot of the pile in "Pile of Autumn Leaves". The bottom platter is about 20 inches long. I've included an image the single plate although it is not in the book. I was so pleased with the crystalization (love that rutile) on the edge of the single plate. For you potters, this is what can happen with a slow cool.

Here's a excerpt from Lark Book's website: 500 Plates & Chargers
Innovative Expressions of Function & Style:

"Plates and chargers can serve as more than just places to put your food: they can be glorious art to show off on a table, sideboard, or hutch. These 500 spectacular pieces chosen by esteemed juror Linda Arbuckle http://lindaarbuckle.com/range from the utilitarian yet beautifully glazed plate to dramatically decorated work, and they’re crafted from a remarkable variety of materials—including pristine porcelain and bold earthenware."

Lark Books publishes wonderful books. Check out their website www.larkbooks.com/ for titles and how to submit. Lots of beauty, creativity and fun in a wide variety of media. 500 Plates and Chargers is in stores now or ask your independent bookseller or library to order it.

all good things,
Teresa

learning with the labyrinth

2008-06-24T09:35:00.000-07:00

Over the past months I've made a lot of labyrinths -- and a lot of them cracked or had other problems. This has been much more labour intensive than I imagined it would be. There were many technical challenges and I decided to leave it for now. All the labyrinths that survived intact have been spoken for. There a quite a few with small cracks that could be painted or covered with handmade paper. One or more could be yours for postage and handling.

This venture hasn't been a "success" but I did enjoy the adventure. I was looking forward to be of service and providing finger labyrinths. I really enjoyed the process and would like to do it all again, but without the setbacks. I will give it another go when the time is right.

There is a lot of info on the www on labyrinths. Here's a link to download a finger labyrinth:
http://www.sharehope.org/labyrinth-finger.htm

Here are a couple of images of a labyrinth surrounded by "soul stones" and others standing vertically along with some teapots ready to be bisqued. They were fired to about 1000 degrees Celsius to ready them to be glazed and fired again.

all good things,
Teresa

Bogged Down Blog. Late Labyrinths

2008-06-07T22:36:00.000-07:00

Here I go, I'll try posting and image and a short message. There are lots of things I'd like to post but so far I've been challenged but at least I've come this far.

Now to make figure out some of the other features.

This is an image of a finger labyrinth made of stoneware clay about nine inches in diameter. I've been making larger labyrinths and they are waiting to be fired. It's been a learning experience complete with technical twists and turns.

all good things,
Teresa