Today we had an introduction to throwing on the wheel, this consisted of Eric providing a long and descriptive demonstration of how to make a cylinder. He would stop to explain exactly what pressure, thickness, hand movement he was going to perform. This was so helpful to see from an onlookers perspective how the clay reacts to each kind of touch, as oppose to the creators perspective. It it is difficult to see the subtle changes in the walls of a piece when viewing from above. We were taught how to properly prepare clay, through the spiral and rams head wedging methods and the importance of homogenizing your clay. Something new that I learnt is that if the clay has been sitting in the studio a while, gravity naturally draws the water to the bottom, or perhaps collects on the sides due to condensation. Previously I have been never wedged clay properly, however after today with the technique Eric showed us I feel I have mastered the rams head. I hope later in the week I will be able to attempt the spiral method, which is considered to be much more advanced. Today we also had an introduction to the Tortus studio and were able to ask many questions about how Eric works as such a successful and world renowned potter. After years of struggling to center my clay on the wheel Eric has showed me how to achieve this his way, the difference that this small change has made to my making is resounding. Primarily because I can now half the time it takes me to make something because I do not spend as much time trying to center, and of course if you’re wanting to be a professional potter, time equals money. Today has been such a revelation, I already feel myself improving,however it has been difficult trying to relearn something you already know, because sometimes old habits are worse than ignorance.
My success for Day 1:
Making a cylinder taller, thinner and quicker than I have ever been able to achieve before. (Right)
Lauren Cattle 