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Shaking Off the Blues: How I Find Progress When It Feels Like I’ve Done Nothing

Shaking Off the Blues: How I Find Progress When It Feels Like I’ve Done Nothing

Every year around this time, I start to feel a little down. It’s a mix of exhaustion, holiday chaos, and—honestly—this weird sense that I haven’t accomplished anything. The year’s almost over, and yet it feels like I’ve just been spinning my wheels. But here’s the thing: I’ve learned that this feeling is normal. And more importantly, it’s not the truth. I’m sure I’m not the only one who gets stuck in this mindset, especially when it feels like there’s so much more to do and not enough time to do it all. So, I wanted to share a few things...

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From Artisan to Artist

From Artisan to Artist

After 18 years of working with clay and a year spent teaching others, I find myself at a crossroads in my creative journey. My pottery, primarily functional, has always been infused with my spirit. Yet lately, I’ve felt a shift—a limbo between being an artisan and embracing my deeper identity as an artist. For so long, my focus was on creating pieces that served a purpose, items to be used. While I still want to produce functional work, I’m yearning for a new layer of meaning in my work. I want my pottery to reflect not just utility, but also...

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Reflections on Memories

Reflections on Memories

Recently, I reflected on memories and why some fade while others remain vivid. One of my earliest memories is of a backyard party at my childhood home. My sister and I were playing in a kiddie pool when she got cut. I remember going inside to find a Band-Aid, and when I returned, everyone praised me for taking care of her. However, I don't think I actually found a Band-Aid; instead, I believe I made one. I recall feeling proud that my efforts brought happiness to those around me. Why does this memory stand out among countless others? I believe...

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Teaching

Teaching

Last autumn, I stumbled upon a fantastic opportunity to teach handbuilding ceramics at Catskill Art Space (CAS) in Livingston Manor, NY. This charming little hamlet is just a couple of hours north of NYC along Route 17, and it's been my home for the past decade. I decided to take on the challenge, despite it being quite a while since I last stood in front of a class. Adult education is a unique experience. The folks who sign up are there to unwind, learn something new, and indulge in a bit of self-discovery. My teaching philosophy is all about supporting...

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Processing loss and finding inspiration

Processing loss and finding inspiration

At the beginning of May, a dear friend passed away and it has effected me more deeply than I could have imagined. David introduced me to Roy shortly after I moved to New York City in 1998. I had just started working in publishing and he had been in the industry for many years. He was somewhat of a mentor and able to help guide me as a young professional experiencing the corporate world for the first time. We developed a friendship and would talk a couple times a month about work, life, and anything else. This continued well after...

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