willi singleton

Today I had the great privilege of visiting Pine Creek Pottery,

the studio of Japanese trained potter Willi Singleton.

Willi uses mostly natural materials, including clay he digs locally

and glazes made from slip and wood ash he processes from corn husk and bamboo.

The pieces are then fired in his four chambered wood fired climbing kiln,

a 30 hour event that requires around the clock maintenance by the artist and a team of friends.

Tucked away in a wooded hollow alongside a creek 

and embraced by a forest of bamboo his studio and home are magical.

Willi carefully handles each piece, reciting its story with such intimacy and candor,

it felt like being properly introduced to the friend I was taking home.

Today I was able to touch that place within me that is so often 

pushed aside as I muddle through the business of my day job.

Now for some tea with my new friend.

xo, j

pottery and such

On Saturday I visited the studio of potter Jeff Kleckner and finally

bought a cup I've waited over a year to purchase.

The beautiful quatrefoil shape is enticing and the porcelain enchanting

but it's the glaze that sets my mind buzzing.  

It bears such a strong resemblance to the skin of a spotted sea ray!

Yes, both tea and coffee taste better in my spotted cup.

*smile*

The little fingerless gloves will be a Christmas present.

There are four requests for such gloves and I'm knitting quickly

 to try and finish them all before the holiday.

It smells like rain tonight and surprisingly there are still 

crickets chirping in the darkness.

Lastly…I had an idea that prompted me to pulled out my oil paints.

It's been many, many years since I've painted but I'm excited about my project.

Oh, and there are two skeins of plum wool/silk waiting on my loom…

So many things to make!

xo, j