Happy New Year! I am grateful for so many things in my crazy, wonderful world and especially for the family and friends who continue to be a part of it. As I reflect on the past year and look forward to what this new year will bring, Auric Gallery, in downtown Colorado Springs, will host their annual "Gratitude" exhibit, opening First Friday, February 3rd. I am honored to have the above raku piece, "Sunshine and Daisies," accepted into this year's show. Very different from my functional ware creations, "Sunshine and Daisies" came to be during a Raku workshop at Ghost Ranch in New Mexico. Although scary and challenging, I have found it's important to step out of my comfort zone every now and again. When I do, I sometimes end up with a treasure. "Sunshine and Daisies" is my treasure, symbolizing a peaceful sense of happiness and life, something I strive for every day. 

 

As I've been reflecting on my pottery and considering where I might want to take it (new glazes, new forms, new whatever...), I read an article by a potter who I totally resonated with. Finding herself in a similar situation as myself, she challenged herself to make 100 cups, all different, in a year's timeframe and have a solo show at it's completion. I've decided to take her challenge to heart. I'm going to make 100 small bowls all roughly the same size/shape (good hand holding size). Each bowl will be finished differently (different glazes, textures, clay, surface treatment, etc...). I will have them finished by the end of August, just in time to be a Featured Artist at Gallery 113 in September with fellow artist Suzy Gardner. Part of the challenge involves posting on social media. Being I am challenged in that area as well, I will be trying to post as I'm working on the bowls and as they are finished. I've been a bit overwhelmed seeing finishing techniques that I would love to try yet can't find the time to experiment with. I feel like this challenge will allow me to play a bit while still creating my tried and true pieces. I already have a few bowls in the works so be sure to follow along on Instagram and Facebook @springspottery.

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VISIT COMMONWHEEL in Manitou Springs this month! They are having their annual Pottery by the Price sale thru January. There are some amazing pieces for sale that artists call "seconds". I have a fair share of pieces there as well, so if you're looking for great deals on fabulous pieces of artbe sure to check it out!