TD Ceramics at the California AIDS Walk

This event marks the first public event for TD ceramics. This event raised money for an important cause and featured a walk for participants. There were 6,000 participants in attendance. Being the first event for TD ceramics, it was very exciting. It presented an opportunity to showcase my handmade pottery from the last 3 years. We shared table space with the Crescent Bay Doll Fanciers, who were very generous in allowing us to use half of their table space. It was a good feeling seeing the interest people showed in my works on display and was a wonderful affirmation. Promotion is one of the more challenging aspects of gaining visibility, for me. This was a new venue for me and the first time I have ever attempted anything like it. I would definitely do it again, now that I am more prepared with what to expect.

One of the most important things that I gained from this experience, is insight from people of what they are looking for or interested in. It's one thing to create pottery based on what feels good to the artist, but when you're offering products for sale, you really need to be in tune with what people are looking for and purchasing. Finding a balance between the two is ultimately my goal. I will always continue making pottery that feels good to me and, at the same time, share those pieces with the public for enjoyment as well.

As a result, I realized how much I enjoy making lidded casseroles and jars. Since I'm not a production potter, I generally make items individually and not in sets. Making lidded jars and casseroles is something that I've been working on refining over the past year. It has been an interesting challenge experimenting with different lid types and body sizes as well as getting them to fit just right. There is nothing more rewarding than creating a casserole or jar with a lid that fits just right.

Recently, I've been working on throwing larger and taller vases so that I can expand my skill level. This has also been a challenge, but I keep coming back to the lidded casseroles. I will continue working on both and hopefully post pictures here soon.