Life and Pottery

Thought I'd do a little photo round up of how life has been lately. I feel as though I've hit a creative hurricane and I'm furiously pouring myself into clay and making pots. Which feels refreshing and familiar. Part of my fervor is due to a count down to baby number 2's arrival.
Baby #2! Another baby boy coming at the end of January. We are in a state of transition.

Feels pretty surreal. But honestly I think this time around I'm truly savoring the waiting time knowing that all to soon it'll change into something a bit less familiar. I'm tapping into a creative fuel which helps me push past the exhausted times of chasing a toddler and being 24 weeks pregnant and still making things that give me peace and rest. Here lately, it's been nothing but clay. Throwing bowls and mugs (and whatever else comes up), feeling happy knowing how they will be used in an everyday capacity. Even the trial and error of glazing and firing again isn't as frustrating because I like to be learning.

My current workspace is tiny. Literally an old kitchen that needs to be torn out. But give me space, no matter how small, and I'll make it work. We artists are resourceful people.  

Making bowls at 12 weeks

       

 All about the process. 

I'll have another new batch out sometime this week! More of these glazes as well as some new ones too.

Checking in with Goals and Getting a Little Sktchy

So from my last post back in January I shared some goals and I'm happy to say I feel as though I've worked towards them in various ways! My time management has gotten better (still not there but progress!). I've really paired down the things I commit too these days and I make sure to finish the things I'm responsible for first before starting any new projects.
Still no new adventures planned but there's plenty of time for that this year. And the pottery part is still in the works but I'm itching to get my hands covered in clay again soon!

Lastly I've really stuck to a much more consistent practice with my artwork. For those who follow me on Instagram (@theartistcatie) I've been using a great app called Sktchy that has really motivated me to paint daily AND work on painting better portraits in watercolor. Basically people get on and post photos of themselves/other people and artists take that photo as inspiration and create a work of art based on it. It's a really fun low key, no pressure way to try out new techniques and get feedback on whatever you post. If you want to try it out I'm under Catie Daniel on the app (sorry its only for iPhone users as of now, but check it out here: Sktchy App)

This one is my favorite of the bunch!

 I've realized that sometimes I've got to create work simply because I enjoy it, not for any other reason (a show or commission for example). I've noticed how much that recharges me. As a mom doing something creative just for myself gives me my sanity (haha) because I do so much for my family. It's amazing to have that "me" time when Jude is sleeping and these small watercolor portraits are quick enough that I can finish them in one sitting.

 As a bonus when Jude wakes up I have all my paints out and we play. Some how he has turned watercolor into finger paint, which is fun and easy to clean. I love introducing him to creative play at such a young age!

Here's a little video of Jude painting all by himself! 

Jude Gestures! (Art Mama Series Part 1)

Here lately life has turned into a steady routine. It's nice, actually, and it works well for us. Part of that routine is the park. Jude and I go pretty frequently. Mainly because I have no backyard and sometimes, we just need to get out of the house. A change of scenery and some sunshine work wonders for the both of us. We go to break up the routine and now it has become my favorite part of the routine (go figure).
Usually I just walk with him in the stroller,  but other times I bring a blanket and spread out on the grass and he plays with toys (and explores the grass) and I do some sketching.
You have never done speed drawing unless you're trying to draw a very active nine month old boy! I do enjoy the challenge though and I am surprised how much of an impression I got from gesture drawing for the few seconds he sat still before moving. Also this was all while stopping him from trying to eat leaves and acorns (everything still goes into his mouth).

I also want to start a series here on the blog on how I incorporate Jude into my art. Aptly called the Art Mama Series. Whether its sketching/drawing him, or dragging him to various art functions I want to really involve Jude into my process and into the arts in every way. I also want to begin allowing him to grow up in a highly creative environment which allows him to experiment, imagine and create. I know it will be messy and hectic but it is something I truly want in my life and his.

The "Jude Gestures"

So hopefully you guys will get to see how this all progresses and plays out. I can't wait to see where this takes me as an artist and as a parent.

Catie