Kathy Todd listens as Gary Triebsch, treasurer, greets new members Larry Jordan, Luther Robinson, Mary Sullivan and Venera Monahan.
HP members Ellen Sullivan, Marion Napurano and Luther Robinson glaze shopping at Trinity Clay and Glaze
Jan Marx
Marilyn Zastrow recently recounted how clay ended up on the ceiling several years ago. This was not a result of some clay fight by angry mudders (or fodders). The culprit, who will remain nameless, simply tried to wedge (push out air bubbles) overly wet clay. Ugly, slimy gray matter soared to greater heights. It stuck. It dried. It became an eyesore, as offensive as dog breath, to anyone who for whatever reason looked up. Six years passed before someone in maintenance discovered and acted upon the spot. A ceiling tile transplant revitalized the entire room, giving it a fresh start.
Why would anyone “wedge” in the first place you might ask? Wedging is a micro-aggression on the clay. The act appears to be violent. Aren’t the arts about peace, love and rock and roll? Getting rid of air bubbles helps prevent a pottery piece from exploding in the bisque (first) kiln firing. Exploding is not only violent and destructive to a beautiful object, it also destroys the potter’s hard work. Actually, “work” could be considered a micro aggression against what we do in pottery, which is “play.” Ah, so many details to remember!
Fortunately six brave souls, having seen wedging, joined the club in September. They includes: Larry Jordan, Luther Robinson, Pam Mason, Ellen Sullivan, Marion Napurano and Mary Sullivan. Venera Monahan rejoined after a two-year hiatus and is participating in the class in order to freshen skills. Also familiar with wedging, Charlotte McGovern and Saundra Gaylord returned last month after long-term commitments kept them away.
With a brand new, very large frontloading kiln, a stand-up table and a plethora of original ideas, Happy Potters is gliding along toward Christmas. Check out the items for sale in the display window through the end of the year. We have great gifts for many occasions.