Thursday, May 20, 2010

Surprise and inspiration

Yesterday a fun surprise came in the mail: an envelope containing a book from the American Ceramic Society. At first I thought, "Uh oh. Did I unknowingly order something while sleep-surfing on the internet after some late night feeding?" (heck-I have been known to be a mess at times- case in point: the other day I got Guthrie out of bed after a nap only to discover that I had left his shoes on. Oops.) Anyway, it turns out that I received this complimentary copy because they had used the article of mine from a prior "Pottery Making Illustrated" in the book. My lesson on creating a quilted wall piece is one of the chapters amongst some other great projects. You can check out the book here.

I am a bit of a thrift store junkie and often come across some real gems on the cheap. Value Village is one of my local favorites (although I think it's a chain, you may have this treasure chest somewhere near you too!) and never fails to provide some of the best finds; yesterday's trip there with the boys was no exception. I always have my eye out for handmade items and found this beautiful crocheted blanket for $1.50!!! It fit perfectly on our mission-style chair, that was originally my grandparents, and created an easy instant "reupholstering" job. This blanket is also a perfect example of what inspires me to create what I do with clay. The repetition of the flowers, the actual and implied texture, and the colors mirror what I often like to accomplish in my work. I only wish I could let the maker of this lovely blanket know that it now has a much appreciated home!

3 comments:

Jen Mecca said...

Awesome AMy!

Linda Starr said...

congrats on being in the book; I am a thrift store junky myself, that blanket looks so cool. During cold weather the crocheted blankets are so warm, I have found several and just bring them home and wash them and use them, your's is very unusual, love it.

Acácia Azevedo Studio Pottery said...

Wonderful surprise and beautiful inspiration. Congratulations!