Fire & Ash: Week Fifteen in the Studio
This week was filled with exciting challenges, meaningful connections, and a hefty dose of hard work in the studio. From starting a new commission to the grand undertaking of firing the wood kiln, it was a week that pushed me creatively and deepened my appreciation for the people I share this space with.
A good friend of mine reached out with a special commission: four plates, four saucers, and four wine goblets. It’s quite the order, but I was more than happy to take it on—not only to help a friend but also to keep the bills paid.
I decided to start with the plates, which turned out to be an entirely new adventure for me. I’ve never made plates before, so there was a lot of troubleshooting involved.
Despite the initial hurdles, I found myself enjoying the challenge. By the end of the week, I had prototypes that I really liked. They’re not perfect, but they have a character and charm that feels true to my style. It’s satisfying to know that I’m growing as a maker, even when the work pushes me out of my comfort zone.
The other major event of the week was loading and firing the wood kiln, a task that’s both physically demanding and incredibly rewarding. The firing took just over 36 hours to complete—a marathon effort that required teamwork, patience, and a shared commitment to the process.
Me and my fellow post-baccs poured our energy and care into the firing. It’s always a monumental task, but this time it felt especially significant because it brought us closer together. I had the chance to work alongside Grace, Emma, and Ryan—our newest studio members and the three I knew the least about until now.
There’s something about the intensity of a wood firing that fosters connection. Between stoking the fire, monitoring the temperature, and troubleshooting issues as they came up, we shared stories, laughter, and the occasional moment of exhaustion. By the end of the firing, I felt like I had a much deeper understanding of their creative perspectives and personalities.
It’s easy to get caught up in the individual nature of studio work, but this week was a beautiful reminder of the communal spirit that ceramics can create. Working together toward a shared goal forged bonds that will undoubtedly carry into the weeks ahead.
Week fifteen was filled with what felt like hard-earned progress. From stepping into uncharted territory with plate-making to the camaraderie of firing the wood kiln, it was a week that reminded me why I love this work.
As I look ahead, I’m excited to refine the commission pieces and see how the wood-fired work turns out. More importantly, I’m grateful for the moments of connection and growth that made this week one to remember.
