The hands of a potter: Interviewing a professional potter

About two days ago I had the privilege of visiting and observing a pottery studio here in Port Elizabeth - and it was a crazy, amazingly rewarding, experience. Walking into her studio I felt like I walked into the mind of a creative; sure, a bit messy and all over the place, but filled with delicately beautiful creations and dances of mesmerising colours. The passion, soul and skill of the artist is so evident throughout the space and my entire project just got a revamp due to her creative process and knowledge.

I honestly have a newfound respect for potters! Their craft is unlike any other and the equipment and tools needed is so unique and offers such a variety in the way they work. The room and atmosphere is a masterpiece in itself - it felt as if I had stumbled into a Van Gogh painting filled with organised chaos and stimulating colours. The beauty of her work and the passion she has, has inspired me so much - I want to create a space where the creatives and artists can express themselves the way she does.

However, there is always a small downside to any site inspection, and in this case the obstacle isn't so small. Rather, it comes in the form of a large, very hot and very heavy kiln (pottery oven). And when I say hot I mean HOT - 1 260 degrees to be exact. This scorching monster needs to go somewhere in my design, and bearing in mind that it runs for about 12 hours and cannot be touched within that time....this isn't going to be easy...

I am so excited to implement what I have learned and observed though. A huge thank you to Adele for her willingness to let me visit her beautiful space!! What an inspirational artist!