I have lots of time to think while I have my hands in the clay. The week’s stress is poured in to the nature of creating pottery. It is an art medium that requires a lot of attention and focus throughout the process. Each step has its own pitfalls. I have understood how to avoid some common hazards, but from the start of a project to its finish, there are many stages where things can go wrong. However, as I mould and carve, worry and tension dissipate in to the texture. This is my personal therapy.
I repeatedly use my hands in all my creative endeavours. It can be easy to forget that your hands are tools, as much as a brush or a pencil. These tools take a beating while working with clay, but it is well worth the trade-off. Examining them closely now, I see all the wrinkles, close to the surface veins, unkempt nails and emerging age spots. These hands are weary, yet fulfilled.
Examining any part of our life or body part close-up, can lead to a negative focus. Minute details that are blown up and out of proportion can hang heavy and make us loose sight of the big picture. It can even go a step further when we compare those attributes to someone else and think others are better. My husband’s hands are pristine. Well, at least I have put in a day’s work.
The physical nature of working with clay leaves me lying down on the sofa, with a well deserved drink, tired hands, and a smile before I sleep.
