My last show is done for the year and perhaps indefinitely. I am relieved to return to my ceramics studio without the stress of deadlines. It’s playtime!
There is so much value in play. I’m talking about for children as well as adults. Taking time to play in an art form gives that other part of our brain a rest that worries and analyzes so our spirits can be released. Unfortunately, our culture undervalues play in favor of productivity. As our schools have stripped the
arts from their curriculums in favor of core subjects, the population is becoming culturally illiterate, more plugged in, and more isolated.
Clay is one medium that immediately can turn adults into kids again and turn kids into kids again. It’s tactile, versatile, and gives immediate satisfaction. If you need more play in your life, consider taking a ceramics class. Enjoy the satisfaction of playing in mud again. I wish everyone had access to clay. The world would be a better place.
Hands in Clay
When my hands touch clay
I lose myself
Deep in the soft, smooth sensation of mud
Sliding between my fingers
When my hands touch clay
I am a child at play
With infinite possibilities
When my hands touch clay
I become the earth
When my hands touch clay
I am Navaho, Pueblo, African, Asian, Aborigine
And of the ancient ones
Sharing the spirit of creation
Hidden in the clay
Waiting to be born
By Alanna Pass 