Hanne Bjorklund on mon 31 may 99
When potters, who already know how to centre a piece of clay, try to
initiate a willing learner into the wonderful world of clay, they most
often start from the wrong point.
Centering clay is a feeling. Some potters spend a long time at the wheel
before they perfect (get the feeling of) this vital part of successfully
throwing a pot.
I believe that until beginners first experience this unique feeling, they
haven't a clue what we are talking about.
So, centre their first piece of clay for them. Then let them put their
hands on it, and feel the steady smoothness of it spinning through their
hands. Let them slowly poke their finger in the centre, open the clay, pull
it up, push it down, bring it out, collar it in, and get the feel of what
it is all about, - until the clay gets tired and needs a rest.
Then, and only then, let them try to centre the clay on their own.
A mistake that beginners often make is to approach / attack the clay with
great determination and force, and then, when they think the clay is
centred, they suddenly let go, with wobbly results.
In our (experienced) enthusiasm, we often fail to teach that the essence
of working with clay is to approach respectfully and slowly, and when
finished, let go very gently.
HANNE
bjorklund@clear.net.nz
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