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.

Common Threads

As I reflect on what I have learned this year, I cannot help but recall a quote that I heard long ago and that still holds true:

"There is one thing we do know: that man is here for the sake of other men - above all for those upon whose smiles and well-being our own happiness depends--And also for the countless unknown souls with whose fate we are connected by a bond of sympathy." - Albert Einstein

When we really look at the world around us and the people who inhabit it, we are reminded that in the end we are all bound by "common threads" and must be here to assist each other.  An important reminder.

The video below is from one of my favorite television shows "Northern Exposure" that deals with the theme of "Common Threads".

The Creative Process: Art Documentaries

This is a collection of art documentaries that explore the creative processes and philosophies of artists working in various art mediums.

Please click on the images below to watch the featured documentaries:

1. Rivers and Tides (Andy Goldsworthy)

2. Jean-Michel Basquiat: The Radiant Child

3. What Remains: The Life and Work of Sally Mann

Zygote (Joel) Blum - Ceramics Monthly

My good friend, fellow potter, and former studio mate Joel Blum has been making amazing ceramic artwork for years.  His use of stenciled designs on ceramics has been a favorite of mine.

I was extremely excited when I heard the news that Joel's stencil technique was featured on page 18 and 19 of November's issue of Ceramics Monthly.  Well deserved recognition indeed.  :)

If you are a subscriber of Ceramics Monthly please click the image below to see Joel's featured technique in the November issue.  If you are not a subscriber, be sure to pick up a copy.

To see more of Joel's ceramic work feel free to follow his blog, which can be accessed by clicking the image below.

Congratulations Joel.  :D

Building Block Sculptures

My latest Speedrun video features the Installation of Building Block Sculptres.  Thank you for viewing.

My pvc wall-hanging building block sculptures are finished drying!  I recently finished the next phase of my series Building Blocks and Childhood Structures.  I thoroughly enjoyed utilizing the plastic pvc foam as an art material.  The pvc foam's light weight nature and ability to hold lithographic ink has been amazing.

Layering the wall-hanging building block pieces incorporates a three dimensional element to the work and increases the complexity of the color relationships.  Also, because the pieces are rearrangeable, one can create numerous unique arrangements.

I am looking forward to experimenting with the scale and placement of the wall-hanging building block sculptures.  This project has truly given birth to new concepts.  This is just the beginning.  :)

"Light Is Light"

"Light is knowledge.  Light is life.  Light is light." - Diane Frolov and Andrew Schneider

The above quote is one of my favorites used in a scene from one of my favorite television series: Northern Exposure.

What does "light" mean to you?