As an artist passionate about creating unique pieces, I embarked on a journey that led me from working with acrylic, epoxy and resin to the enchanting world of ceramics. This transition was not just a shift in materials but a transformation towards sustainability and eco-friendliness in my artistry.
I had been working with mostly with acrylic and epoxy and resin, creating pieces that were inspiring to me. While the process of working with it was captivating, I didn't enjoy the toxicity levels of working with the materials or the waste it produced. Being a part of a shared maker space and seeing all the efforts we make on re-using materials, I began to feel I wanted to work with a more sustainable renewable material...which is when I explored ceramics.
I took my first class from my friend, Jolanta Isabella Pawlak who is an inspiration and amazing teacher. My very first sculpture under her guidance, was a mask of Frida Kahlo. I was hooked. I jumped in and had to find my way.
I found ceramics to be quite intuitive. I was able to bring my ideas to life, although I did face some challenges when it came to working with clay, dealing with cracking, mastering glazing, and understanding how kilns operate. I made plenty of mistakes along the way, but the great thing about working with clay is that you can always salvage and reuse it. This experience was a nice change of pace from working with resin and epoxy.
The tactile nature of ceramics, the earthy smell of clay, and the anticipation of opening the kiln after firing all added to the allure of this medium. Each piece I create tells a story, echoing the harmony between nature and artistry.
Embracing ceramics allows me to explore my creativity in new dimensions and became a form of meditation, grounding me in the present moment and connecting me closer to the Earth. Through this journey, I learned that art is not just about the final piece displayed but also about the story behind each creation.
The imperfections in ceramics remind us of the beauty in uniqueness and the value of sustainable practices in art. I hope my journey from resin to sustainable ceramics inspires you to explore new avenues in your creative pursuits.
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