JERRY LI
Clay
Here's the thing about clay, it's not pretty, nor is it clean, and it's absolutely nowhere near being easy to work with. Pottery itself is revolved around the material. We as artists are practically servants for the clay. Clay is stubborn, and has it's own set of needs. Please don't expect anything from it without effort. It will not listen.
Join me as I guide you through how I've learned to tame it.
Foundation
Honestly, I could shut up right now and sum up my journey with one phrase, and that is to "let go."
It really isn't rocket science, and my success in pottery is as simple as letting go, let the clay do what it wants, who cares. That being said, fundamental skills in pottery is amongst the most crucial elements to success.
Without fundamental skills, you go nowhere.
Patience
Now, the learning's over. Once the basics is taught, the world of pottery and clay is free for exploration. At the same time, failure reaches it's peak.
Use this time, find yourself, refine your skills.
It's gonna be worth it.
Control
At this point, clay is no longer just a sticky, messy and sloppy pain in the ass. It is now a part of the artist. It listens and behaves (most of the time). Clay has now become more or less of a box or a chest, where I let go and dump all my emotions into.
Be curious, express yourself.
Depart
Departing successfully from the restrictions and control of clay requires something beyond simply injecting emotions into the process. In other words, treat the clay like a mirror. See yourself in it.
Hobbyists create.
Artists reflect.
