Comments on: The Power of a Teapot

By: Noelle

Noelle — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 14:01:27 +0000

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.”

By: Lori Watts

Lori Watts — Tue, 14 Apr 2009 10:08:24 +0000

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.)

By: cynthia

cynthia — Sun, 25 Jan 2009 21:01:47 +0000

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?

By: barb jensen

barb jensen — Mon, 05 Jan 2009 06:42:36 +0000

What a wonderful teapot.
Nice post. I think of what we make as heirlooms.