Piggy Banks

You may remember briefly reading about a Spring Sale that I was a part of at Omaha Clayworks where I've been throwing pottery. This was the first time I sold my pottery. As you can imagine I was VERY excited! I was a little vague about the sale because I was keeping a secret. I was inspired to make a piggy bank for my friends upcoming baby shower and I didn't want her to see what I was up to, just in case she happened to check out my blog.

I didn't make just one piggy bank, I was actually making piggy banks for months. I've been told many times that in order to improve in this art I need to stick to one form for a while. I have learned so much while making these piggy banks and have grown a ton.

It was so amazing to see my pigs on display with all the other artists' work. Unfortunately around the studio my pigs were quite the controversy. Many people thought they had a right to tell me that my pigs were NOT art and that they did NOT belong in the sale. That really hurt.  I would never disrespect another persons hard work like that. Anyway it was decided that my pigs were allowed in the sale but not allowed in the gallery.

I had such a positive response from the people who came to the sale! It was so good for my soul that people would walk in and choose my pottery over others'. It's so rewarding for someone other than family and friends to adore and appreciate my work. These pigs have been overwhelmingly popular. I've sold out and have a list of people waiting for me to make more!

The only problem is I'm moving to PA and am not sure where I'll be throwing pottery in the near future. My new property has lots of options for a studio space but it will be a huge undertaking and will take time. I hope that I will be able to find a wonderful ceramic community to be a part of in the meantime.

It makes my heart happy to see how much joy these pigs have brought people. Each and everyone is completely different.

I learned the importance of making thick solid attachments and how to make them stay in place.

I had so much fun figuring out how to make a variety of expressions.

I also learned that you need to have the corks first and then create the pig to size. I was surprised at how challenging it was to find corks to fit each pig. People seemed to be drawn toward the corks that were more rustic. What do you like best? 

I look forward to sharing more pieces in the future and having them for sale soon. I hope these pictures of my latest creation made you smile. As always I appreciate feedback and constructive criticism so feel free to leave a comment below or e-mail me.