Pottery Classes

Last week I wrapped up my first pottery session since arriving in Albany. It has been my only creative outlet here, and I sense some big possibilities. I am pretty satisfied with some of the pieces I have done, considering I am not a creative/artistic type by nature, and the only other art I was ever proud of was a portrait done from an old ElfQuest comic back in highschool (I don't tell many people that I was a comic geek). I first discovered my love of clay last year in Anchorage when i took a class looking for something to do during the winter that didn't involve freezing outside temperatures or sitting in front of the TV. My first instructor Barry was really into his art, digging his own clay and hand making glazes. He had a very strong philosophy of clay and how it should be handled, "the essence of clay’ and clay memory. The pot creates itself through you. All very zen. My new instructor has been much different in her technique & style, showing you exactly what to do to make whatever you are going for. She has a step-by-step pottery sheet: how to make a pot. Barry would find that very offensive I think.

The pottery process is so fragile. You learn early on not to get attached to your work. Between centering and pulling, trimming, drying, glazing, and the two firings it must go through, anything can happen. There are so many possibilities as far as what can be created and the variety of glazing techniques. I am surprised however that every vase, plate, cup, and container I have attempted so far has turned out to be a bowl!! Trust me, this is not as easy as it looks.

Last week was sad because my instructor informed our class that the building she has been in for 25 years has been sold and her studio is closing down i.e. no more classes. Apparently this is happening all over the Capital Region as two of the other potters I have contacted have confirmed, telling me they are being moved out of their studios as well. Aside from buying my own wheel and kiln I am hoping to figure out some way to continue this new passion. My artistic essence is suffering! I need my clay fix! I am looking into my options now and beginning to realize that this new hobby of mine is going to be expensive…