creative momentum

The ceramic process has a sort of rhythm to it.  Moments of creative energy interrupted by more mundane tasks.  In my studio, it goes a little like this:

• the idea: time with the sketchbook.  Anything is possible!
• creating: a frenzy of creative energy.
• finishing: critical focus to refine the work.
• drying: akin to watching the grass grow.
• bisque firing: unless you’re single firing work, this is really just dutiful preparation for the next step.
• glaze application: if I’ve done my homework, this is another flurry of creative energy.
• glaze firing: another chore.  However, this time it’s fueled by anticipation of the finished work.
• unloading the kiln: here is where the anticipation of what could be and the fears of what might actually be come together.  It’s Christmas and I’m 8 years old.  Even the pinging of the still warm pieces when I sneak a peak into the kiln before unloading sing with excitement!

Considering the rise and fall of the ceramic process, it becomes necessary to work two cycles that compliment each other.

For instance, currently I have clay drying on the tables.  So then, I’m also glazing work and running glaze tests.  We could call it an efficient use of studio time.  But, I tend to think of it as a practical preservation of creative momentum; leaving no opportunity to misplace my motivation.