Making Things...

I recently had the privilege of spending a week at the John C. Campbell Folk School in North Carolina, serving as the studio assistant for a dear friend as she taught a weeklong Creative Containers course. We arrived not quite knowing what to expect, but fully energized by the promise of a new adventure.

What we discovered was a remarkable experience. The Folk School’s guiding tenets—joy, kindness, stewardship, and a non-competitive spirit—shaped every part of our week. These values foster a nurturing atmosphere where creativity flourishes, and the sense of community is resounding. It may have rained everyday we were there (except the last day) but that did not impact the level of joy for making! The artists in our class were incredibly prolific, often returning to the studio after dinner to continue their work. 

It was an honor to be part of such a meaningful, collaborative space, and I left invigorated with appreciation for the way art-making can bring people together.

Second Saturday at the Workhouse: Raku to Go

This past weekend was the Winter Works celebration in conjunction with Second Saturday at the Workhouse Arts Center. The holiday season brings with it a unique charm, making volunteering during this time even more special. A delightful opportunity to reconnect with friends whom I have not seen in a while. 

In the festive ambiance of the ceramics studio, surrounded by the spirit of creativity, we helped the patrons select pots, glaze them and then enjoy the spectacle of the Raku experience! It was such a pleasure to see families and friends crafting something together creating lasting memories in the form of unique, handmade art. 

Volunteering during the holiday season is a heartwarming blend of community service, friendship rekindling, and creative collaboration, making it a truly special experience.