For me, leaning is an ongoing process, and I’m proud that I keep learning new skills.
| New Storage |
Last year, I was lucky enough to have an advanced art student who told the most interesting story about how his father wanted him to learn how to build a house. His father bought a parcel of land in Wisconsin, and for a year, my student, his father, and his brother traveled to Wisconsin to build their get-away-home. They did everything from laying foundation, to plumbing, to electrical, to the finishes. I was so impressed! I never heard of such a thing! And then I put his knowledge to good use. I facilitated access to the school’s woodshop and he was able to use his woodworking skills to build armature, and frames for his artwork. In doing so, he taught me about the different saws and tools.
Later, I asked my friend, our theater’s technical director, to talk me through building portable shelves for my upcoming art fairs. Thanks to his patience, tutelage, and power tools, I had new skills. I highly doubt anyone would ever want to pay me for any of my wood works, but what I make will serve my purposes!
After months of deadline driven ceramic work, I am finally taking a week long break. I use the term “break” very loosely, because I’ve been making storage for my work space. And while I’m sawing and hammering away, my mind drifts to my next clay works. I can’t wait to get my hands in my clay again, and I relish this time when, for a short while, I don’t have any deadlines and I can take time to play with form and design.