pottering along

I'm not the best planner in the world. In fact I rarely plan anything, which in some respects might explain the state of my life so far. But about six months ago I wrote a list of things I would like to do. This might have something to do with the fact that I am approaching a birthday, not a big-y but a middle-y (in many respects a far worse prospect) and suddenly the time to achieve all these things might, well, be (small voice) running out. Some things on my list (like travelling to Iceland or walking 100km of the Camino de Santiago) will have to wait for next year or longer. But some have been achieved. I am now 7 weeks into an 8 week ceramics course and I can now pinch, coil, slab, build and glaze pots with the best of them. Or possibly with just the rest of my class. 

the best of things

Oh my. Love, love, LOVE the handpainted ceramics of Georgina Warne. Just look at that swallow backed ewe and the butterfly covered hare. These are truly beautiful pieces of art and Georgina's work is influenced by nature writers like Robert Macfarlane, Roger Deakin and Richard Mabey- writers much admired in this house.  I love pottery and ceramics in all forms, perhaps because they translate so easily into daily life. Having a favourite hand-thrown cup or bowl or plate is something that brings pleasure with every use. And I can't imagine the pleasure that would come from having one of Georgina's wonderful ceramics to gaze at **sigh**

My Pinterest page here has lots more favourite pottery and ceramics if you'd like to take a look and go to Georgina's website for more of her ceramics, drawings and prints.

made by the sea

If you need to be lulled by gentle sea-sounds, the wet slap of clay dug from the beach and watch an artist at work this video of potter Judith Rowe might be just the thing... I love the opening sequence with the cry of the sea birds and the sound of feet across sand...

Judith Rowe - Made by the Sea from Alun Callender on Vimeo.






Wrapping your fingers around a hand-thrown mug as you drink your warming tea connects you to the person who made it, connects you to their creativity, connects you to their wobbles and finger pressure as the clay is turned and formed, connects you to their time and place.

If you want to buy any of Judith's ceramics go to the lovely Made in Hastings shop.