Thrift Store Find ~ Robin DuPont

Today I just missed out on buying a mug made by Robin DuPont.  As I was about the enter the store, Robin's and my friend, Jeff Stewart (pictured) was leaving with this mug in his hand.  I'm glad he was able to add it to his collection, which includes pots made by Luke Lindoe. 

I first met Robin when I visited Jeff in Banff; Jeff had studio space at The Banff Centre's ceramics area.  Robin stopped by Jeff's apartment with a book he had just purchased on wood fired kilns. He was oohing and awing about the kilns while I was more interested in the pots. Robinhad some very good stories about building kilns and firing with road kill.

One thing I know for sure, Jeff definitely got a bargain. He wanted Robin to know that his mugs are "going for a lot of money". I think the price was so low since there was wax in the mug. Not sure what era this mug is but it's not recent.

Here's a mug of Robin's that resides in my cupboard when I'm not using it. It is perfect for me since I use one finger to hold mugs. Robin is one of the best soda firers around.

Cup: The Intimate Object VII

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

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.