A Disappointing Turn in the Studio

Recently, I embarked on what I thought would be an exciting experiment: a new clay slip mixed with bronze powder. I envisioned a series of flowing brush marks, each stroke capturing a hint of metallic shimmer that would transform the piece into something ethereal and unique. The idea had me buzzing with anticipation as I carefully brushed the slip onto a leather-hard pot.

But when the moment of truth arrived—after firing—the pot revealed a completely different story. Instead of the elegant brush marks I had imagined, I was met with a muddy brown coating that covered the entire surface. The bronze powder, which I hoped would elevate the design, seemed to fade into an unexpected monotony.

It’s a tough pill to swallow when a project, fuelled by creative energy and high expectations, doesn’t turn out as planned. I like experimenting; it keeps me on my toes and pushes the boundaries of my craft. However, the stark contrast between my vision and the final result left me feeling disheartened.

Maybe this setback is just a part of the process—another reminder that not every experiment can be a triumph. For now, I’m left with the lesson that sometimes, even the most carefully planned ideas can go awry. And that’s a reality I have to live with in the creative journey.

For now, I’m taking a step back to reflect and reassess my approach. Despite the disappointment, the experiment wasn’t a complete loss; it’s a moment of learning in an ongoing exploration. I hope that with time, even this misstep will contribute to a better understanding of my craft.