Kiln Goddess
Last week, or maybe it was the week before, I was doing some studio clean up in an attempt to make some room so that I can “modernize” my space with a little insulation and drywall. Yep, just the basics for me. Whilst tidying and peering into storage boxes, which moved with us from Maine, I came across a box of old ceramic work – some dating back to my very first class. I saw my little goddess and was more than a little embarrassed that I shared her with my class. I was about to destroy her and throw her away, when I thought, no she will receive a pardon and serve out her days near my kiln.
As I held her and gave her a good once over, I realized that I made this figure at a time in my life when I was in love with the possibilities of clay. I swooned over every free moment when I could sneak away to the ceramic studio on campus. She represents a notion and a feeling that I would like to hold with me. She is pregnant with possibilities and will guard my firings from future disasters and mishaps… and perhaps even my artistic soul. If not, boom badaboom she’s outta here!
She is currently standing guard over a bisque fire as I write this post, which by the way, is past my bedtime. I am waiting just a few more minutes before I can turn up the temperature to high and allow the kiln sitter to turn off the kiln when it reaches cone 04 temperature which should happen between 12 – 1AM.
Meanwhile, I’ve made some decisions. I am going to focus more on making and less on being the main marketing machine – that’s exhausting. I’ve decided that I’m finally going to get some promotional packets together and approach some galleries, including one in LA that sent me a query last spring that I never followed up on. I’m ready to weather a little rejection, and will hopefully hear a few yeses along the way too. The new Ceramic’s Monthly arrived a few weeks ago which is slightly serendipitous. It’s their annual gallery guide, which highlights galleries across the US that specifically represent ceramicists and potters. I will start locally and see what happens.
I also want to thank everyone for all your comments to my last post. It’s very affirming that I’m not alone concerning some of my views. I value everyone’s input.
~Cynthia
Janvangogh
October 8, 2007 at 1:33 pm //
Following up. Thanks for the reminder. Something I am very bad at.
Looks like Larry may have found a companion. Does she have a name?
Cynthia
October 8, 2007 at 10:30 pm //
No name yet, Janet – she has to prove herself first. Though my fast bisque fire turned out great!
Mary Timme
October 9, 2007 at 12:29 am //
Well I think your firing turned out well because you are good at what you do.
I’ve recently come to the decision to work on becoming a wildlife artist. It is something I’ve always wanted to do, so why not? She asked innocently.
The Lone Beader
October 9, 2007 at 1:31 am //
I think your work will be very well accepted. Good luck:)
Angela
October 9, 2007 at 1:57 am //
I would name her the Goddess of Clay because of what she reminded you of when you first pulled her out. Wonderful post!
*HUGS*
Cynthia
October 9, 2007 at 1:08 pm //
I think that’s terrific Mary – follow your dreams!
Thanks Diana
I’ll have to think about that, Angela – thanks for stopping by!
Jafabrit
October 9, 2007 at 1:38 pm //
ah ha, so you had your effigy figure all along
I think once we make a decision it is such a relief and then we can focus. Sometimes I think we forget the impact our words on a blog may have. Your struggle and journey has been helpful to me, and I am sure it has been to others. In turn I hope the comments have been helpful to you.
I don’t doubt that there is a gallery or two who feel they MUST have your work, its in the stars.
HMBT
October 9, 2007 at 2:15 pm //
I too have made the choice (yesterday as a matter of fact) to put away the tools of business (except for one day twice a week, more if needed) and focus on the creating. Marketing becomes an almost addiction…over powering the the act, the magic of the making. I know you will do great…I just know it.
Chi
October 9, 2007 at 7:09 pm //
I can’t believe you even thought of throwing “the goddess” away. She’s so graceful and beautiful. i’m sure she’ll scare away all evils that try to approach your kiln. also, i’m happy to hear you’re thinking of galleries. you won’t have any problems finding some that’ll adore your work.
Jean Levert Hood
October 9, 2007 at 11:22 pm //
Cynthia, I think your goddess is perfect to watch over the kiln. I have a few pieces in my studio that ‘watch over.’ Fun stuff.
The best to you with your business decisions and new focus.
Jean
Cynthia
October 9, 2007 at 11:53 pm //
“ah ha, so you had your effigy figure all along”
It has been a journey and I’m happy to have made it. Sometimes I just need to try certain things just to see if I can.
So, I did, Jafabrit – so I did…
It’s tough to do, Heather – good luck to you. I always feel like I have something hanging over my head. Though I have been able to make a habit of some things, like blogging that feel second nature to me.
“She’s so graceful and beautiful.”
Hahaha Chi, she’s also so heavy that she could really hurt someone! But, I have a certain fondness for her so she stays…
Thanks for the comments, Jean – what or who watch over you?
Jean Levert Hood
October 11, 2007 at 4:26 am //
Cynthia, I have a little teddy bear who sits on my easel. It wears a pink shirt with the breast cancer image on it, in memory of my precious baby sister. Also, my mannequins, from on high, stand and see the studio!!
Jean
Cynthia
October 11, 2007 at 12:26 pm //
Oh…Jean, I’m sorry to hear about your sister – but am glad you keep her close!