Chief Editor Pauline Ng shares her experiences
(Translated by Jaren K. Y.)
From a young age, ceramics have always intrigued me. Even simple bowls and plates manage to captivate me—it’s something about their little intricate details and the feel of them when I hold it in my hands. Unfortunately, actually making something out of ceramic seemed too difficult for me; this dream I had is ultimately unattainable. That is, until recently when I stumbled in front of a window of a ceramics studio on my way to an exhibition. Almost immediately I knew that this unexpected find would lead me down another wonderful path in my life.
I assure you, dear readers, I’m not exaggerating when I say that even someone with no inherent talent, such as myself, can acquire the skills of hand-crafting ceramics within a relatively short span of time. Of course, I owe much of this achievement to the guidance my skilled teacher, but also to the encouragement from fellow classmates. While many of my younger peers find comfort in throwing all kinds of objects on the potter's wheel, mastering the centring technique proves to be no easy feat. The process of pulling the clay higher is both exhilarating and nerve-wracking. Eventually I got the hang of it and succeeded in creating several cups and vases.
What I truly love is the art of hand crafting. After my first attempt at hand-made utensils, I
fell in love with clay. It seems to almost engage with you, almost as if it imparts its own needs to you, signalling that it needs more water or when it is tired, even offering a wry smile at times! When it is done and you’ve built something proper, it will stand tall and proud.
Hand-building with clay is perfect for those who have gracefully entered their sixties and have outgrown classic games like mahjong. Consider crafting some intriguing vessels or small decorative items, which can serve as personal artefacts or be presented as exquisite gifts to your friends and family. Each creation is a work of art, unique and irreplaceable. For this reason, I know how difficult it can be to give it away and instead keep it for yourself! Though I currently attend only one class per week, spanning a mere two to three hours, I always manage to make at least one or two hand-built creations each time. They are then glazed before handing them over to the teacher for firing in the kiln. Then, in the subsequent class, I can bring them back home with me. How gratifying!
One thing I regret is not having started this hobby sooner. There are numerous ceramic studios out there, and I encourage you to seize the opportunity and give it a try. Who knows, you may just be one pottery class away from discovering a new found passion.
