Guilty pleasures in ceramic arts
Ceramic arts, like any creative pursuit, can have its guilty pleasures—those delightful, sometimes unconventional, and often indulgent practices that artists secretly enjoy. Here are some guilty pleasures in ceramic arts:
1. Playing with Clay Scraps:
It's hard to resist the tactile allure of clay, even when it's just leftover scraps. Many ceramic artists secretly love kneading, squishing, and molding these remnants into spontaneous, abstract sculptures.
2. Glazing Experiments:
Glazing can be a bit unpredictable, but that's part of the fun! Some artists indulge in playful glazing experiments, mixing colors and techniques just to see what happens, even if it's not always what they originally intended.
3. Making Functional Art for Friends:
While many artists create ceramics for exhibitions or sales, some secretly relish the pleasure of making functional art, like mugs or bowls, as personal gifts for friends and loved ones. There's something special about knowing that your art serves a practical purpose.
4. Raku Firings:
Raku firing is a fast and exciting process that involves removing pottery from the kiln while it's still red-hot and placing it in combustible material. It's not always the most practical or predictable method, but the thrill of the unexpected results can be a guilty pleasure for ceramic artists.
5. Collecting Unique Tools:
Ceramic artists often have a collection of unique tools and gadgets, some of which may have no clear purpose but are too intriguing to resist. These tools can range from handmade carving tools to vintage finds from antique stores.
6. Over-the-Top Glaze Layering:
Some artists can't resist the temptation to layer glazes extravagantly, creating intricate and vibrant color combinations that might not be the most practical for functional ceramics but are simply mesmerizing.
7. Stash of Unfinished Projects:
Ceramic artists may secretly hoard a stash of unfinished projects, whether it's because they got distracted by a new idea or encountered a technical challenge they're not quite ready to tackle. These half-finished pieces are like a treasure trove of creative potential.
8. Late-Night Kiln Watch:
Waiting for a kiln to fire can be like waiting for Christmas morning. Some artists indulge in late-night kiln-watching, eagerly anticipating the moment they can open the kiln to see the results.
9. Impromptu Clay Parties:
There's nothing quite like gathering a group of friends for an impromptu clay party. It's an excuse to get messy, have fun, and maybe even create something beautiful together.
10. Ceramic-Related YouTube Marathons:
Many ceramic artists secretly binge-watch YouTube videos about pottery techniques, kiln firing, and studio tours. It's both educational and a guilty pleasure for indulging in their passion.
Remember, guilty pleasures in ceramic arts are all part of the joy and creativity that come with working in this medium. Whether it's indulging in experiments or hoarding a collection of intriguing tools, these little pleasures can add excitement and spontaneity to the ceramic artist's journey.
