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.