Over the years, I
have learned that the process of making art is a way to investigate and expand
our perceptions of the world. If approached intuitively and authentically the creative
process is an inspiration. The word ‘inspire’
essentially means to give life with breath. An inspiration is like an
intentional inhale — a breath taken
in, as one may experience during mediation and yoga. When a work of art inspires,
it can move us to discover evidence of a universal and personal journey that
contains the essence of life’s unexplainable, existential mysteries. Through
the process of slowing down to observe the world, being introspective, and
dreaming of possibilities that spring from the heart and the imagination, can
we reach the healing potential of creative experience. It is through slowing
down; practicing focused mindfulness; doing one thing at a time; and thinking
about what is necessary that can make the act of creating a Zen
experience.
Ceramics in
particular offers a window into this type of discovery because clay is a basic tactile
material that physically and metaphorically connects us to the Earth in a
timeless way. It is essentially a right brain activity that offers a holistic approach
to learning about intangible things such as intuition, insight and sensitivity.
In a beginning Ceramics class students will often declare how difficult it is
because it requires a willingness to move their hands in ways that may seem
quite awkward at first. It requires slowing down, focus, and a commitment to
accepting that the process can be more important than the outcome. Any initial
intimidation is overcome with practice, determination and patience. Once a
student sees the alchemy that transpires between mud and maker, they are
understandably amazed by their own handmade accomplishments. Along the way,
they may have also learned some valuable things about Zen.
© M.Ogilvie, 2015 All rights reserved.
© M.Ogilvie, 2015 All rights reserved.
