Time and Gaining New Eyes

"I propose that function isn't; function does.  It is defined by its action, instead of its being--we do, therefore we are--time is existence, and celebrating time reminds us that we are." - Tina Gebhart

Actively make use of time and celebrate it. We all can appreciate the importance of using time appropriately, thoughtfully, and decisively.

This is a "goal painting" that I completed here at Terra Cottage Ceramics during my assistantship.  What a learning experience it was and continues to be.  Use of time is the key.

The list reads:

1. Move with a quiet urgency.

2. Finish the task.

3. Think in three-dimensions.

4. Stop and observe with new eyes.

5. Be productive and never idle.

6. Be decisive and thoughtful.

7. Don't ask questions you can answer.

8. Remember to invest truth and love into Everything.


Chief to applying this list, I have found, is learning to see with New Eyes.  Everyday learning to experience, observe, and be thoughtful before acting.

We can gain new eyes by means of the ones that we meet.  Whether it be a fun-loving and ever thoughtful mentor:

Artist Michael Terra prepping for the Empty Bowls Project.

Or a hard working and giving community:

Empty Bowls volunteer Joe Dortch and Jon Rodabaugh glazing bowls for the Empty Bowls Project.

Paducah Arts Alliance Artist In Residence Eli Blasko teaching an image transfer workshop.

Empty Bowls volunteers setting up the bowls in preparation for the Empty Bowls Project.

Be thoughtful and decisive.

Everyday, learn to see with "New Eyes".

A preview of new work that I completed while at my assistantship.

Terra Cottage Ceramics Assistantship

"Postcards From The Inside"

It has been two weeks since I began my five-month assistantship at Terra Cottage Ceramics in Paducah, Kentucky, and I have already learned so much.  From working daily with artist Michael Terra on projects to incorporating new and more efficient methods of working in the studio and learning new techniques.  There are always new ideas to incorporate and new growth occurring.

Terra Cottage Ceramics Gallery

"Reading Glasses" (Detail)

Terra Cottage Ceramics Gallery

I am working daily with artist Michael Terra on many projects, including the Empty Bowl Project.  The Empty Bowl Project is an fundraiser event for the local soup kitchen which involves the local community in Paducah, Kentucky.  Michael, some community members, and I make the bowls, and then additional community members come to the studio to glaze the bowls in preparation for firing.  When someone purchases a ticket for the event, which will be occurring at the local convent center, they receive a bowl full of food from twelve local restaurants to enjoy.  After enjoying their meal, they get to take their bowl home with them.  It is an amazing event that helps to bring the community together.  We have made 1,000 bowls so far, but our goal is to make a total of 1,500 bowls.

352 of the 1,000 bowls made so far.

My apartment key and key chain.

Time to get back to the studio.  I am excited to continue this amazing journey.