‘‘Tis the Season”

We wait all year for a Christmas, Thanksgiving arrives and passes, and in a huge rush, Christmas is at our doorstep.  It shouldn’t be a stressful time, but it is for so many people.  It’s a spiritual mind game...let’s remember the reason for the season, the birth of Jesus Christ.  Our expressions of love should outweigh the stress.  I’ve shared this painting on Facebook, enhanced with a reminder.  I hope you are enjoying the holidays🎄❤️🎄

Christmas Ornaments

After a successful Hobson Craft Fair Sale, there are plenty of Christmas Ornaments available!  I won’t have time to personalize more now, but made many of them with a chalkboard type back that can be written on with markers, pencils or ink.  Here’s a sample:

  

Pitcher and Cups

The pitcher and set of cups turned out beautifully, don’t you think?  The combination of glazes worked:  Amaco Snow on the inside and upper outside, blue oxide, clear celedon over Alberta slip, green slip, and Blue Rutile over Alberta slip on the bottom.  Made with ❤️.  And most importantly, Dianne Scotten loved it!  She asked, “How did you know those are my colors?”  I didn’t; God did.  Mission accomplished, praise God❤️

Pottery Inspiration: Brewery Flats

I’ve made a pitcher, inspired by a walk at Brewery Flats in Lewistown, Montana.  It’s a beautiful spot next to Big Spring Creek with secluded trails and lots of trees.  I made a pitcher because of the water pouring through that stream.  I also was thinking of a friend who confidently asked me a long time ago to make her a pitcher and I said “yes” long before my skill level was adequate.  I appreciated that she had that kind of confidence in me....something I was personally working on.
The carving, demonstrated below, represents not only the trees and paths, but the peaceful yet mysterious sensation of walking through those spaces.  Inspiration comes from experiences, probably more than locations.  (I’ll share more later on glazing, Lord willing, after the first bisque firing.)