It occurs to me that, given the current state of our economy, and the mounting push to focus less on material goods, we as artists and craftspeople might want to consider more carefully our contribution to the overall surplus of “things” in the world. What impact do our “products” have on the environment? Do we need to be especially vigilant with our work habits, making sure we are focusing on quality rather than quantity? Where do we find the line between satisfying that inherent need to make things with the essential ability to edit our work, so that the items we do send out into the world retain meaning for both the maker and the end user?
These are questions we all must face at one time or another, and for me, they often lead to doubts about my own work and even my choice to make my living as an artist. However, the other day I received a gift that reminded me just how important “things” can be to us. My time at Watershed this past summer was very special to me; I met wonderful people, had once in a lifetime experiences, and made connections that I hope will extend many years into the future. And so, when the time came for my husband and I to leave Maine, it was very difficult for me to say goodbye…and it hasn’t gotten any easier. I had even gone so far as to put away pictures from this summer, just to stop myself from thinking about Maine too much.
But on December 20th, our 11th wedding anniversary, my husband gave me a wonderful little teapot made by Tyler Gulden, which reminded me how important it is to rely on our memories and how certain objects can represent those special times in our lives. Because not only is this particular teapot special to me because it was made by a wonderful potter and dear friend, but it happened to have been fired at Watershed during a firing Tyler and I worked on together.
So as I consider the afore mentioned questions again, I think that this is what we are often making: keepsakes, items to represent a certain time is one’s life. Maybe it’s a handmade mug that fits perfectly in the hand which will always remind you of that lovely trip to the country on a fall day, or perhaps it’s a special piece of handmade jewelry to commorate a new addition to your family…or, as in my case, a sweet little teapot to remind me of a very special summer.
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What a wonderful teapot.
Nice post. I think of what we make as heirlooms.
I revisit this question every so often – but I think you answered it beautifully! We still need stuff, but why not make that special hand crafted items when appropriate?
I often surprise my students by saying, “There are already enough pots in the world.” Potters must consider what their work contributes to the world that is unique. (I always have to add: Student pots are fine — their reason for existing is that they are steps on the way to better pots.)
Hi Lori, it’s so good to hear from you. Thank you for taking the time to leave a comment on my teapot post. I agree with your thoughts on our need as artists to be conscious of what we contribute to the world of goods. I am a huge fan of editing, and often feel like I need to clear out my physical space so as to create more mental space.
However, I am wondering where this philosophy might leave those people who approach clay as a hobby about which they are passionate, but for which they clearly have no great talent or artistry. I am not talking about those who just dabble here and there. What I mean is this: Is a pot (or any work of art or craft) any less valid because it does not meet up to a certain standard? Is it enough for a piece to have been created as an expression of a person’s love for a particular medium?
Someone sent me a quote after reading this post; I don’t remember the exact wording, but the gist was this: “We as artists, when considering the question of what to make, should not worry so much about the question of what the world needs. We should make the things that bring us joy, because what the world really needs is more people who are filled with joy.”