January 9th, 2025,
“Work that matters for people who care.”
A Year of Commitment: Writing and the Studio
After a full year of showing up to write daily, I’ve realized the power of commitment and consistency. It’s an accomplishment I’m proud of, and it has inspired me to extend this discipline to the pottery studio. The goal? Show up every day to make at least one thing. Starting with just one pot can often lead to filling a whole wear board, and the habit of showing up makes all the difference.
This shift has required some planning. After long shifts at the paper factory, finding the energy to create is no small task. But just as I carved out time for daily writing, I’m learning to balance studio time, preparation, and family commitments. With a winter wine festival coming up, I’ve been busy creating wine tumblers and larger pieces to showcase at the event. This renewed commitment to daily pottery-making is already transforming my practice.
Reflections on the Tools We Use
Recently, I took a hard look at the tools in my studio. Over time, I had accumulated far too many duplicates, gifted tools, and thrift store finds. Some tools hold sentimental value—like those passed down from my mentor—but the excess has become a distraction.
The process of decluttering has been both challenging and rewarding. I’ve started videoing myself at work to identify which tools I truly use and need. It’s a liberating experience to strip back to the essentials, allowing for more focus and intention in my craft. As a bonus, I’ve decided to donate some unused tools to fellow potters who might put them to good use.
Planning with the End in Mind
Inspired by The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, I’ve started to plan my projects with the end in mind. This mindset has brought clarity to several long-term goals. One major focus is finishing the wood kiln in my backyard. With much of the hard work done, I can envision it standing proudly in the snow-covered yard, ready for firing. Taking my time has allowed for better decisions and a stronger foundation.
Another goal is completing a children’s book about pottery. The text is nearly ready, and I’m searching for an illustrator to bring the story to life. This side project has become a personal labor of love, one that I hope will inspire young minds to explore the joy of clay. Lastly, my plans for Creek Road Brewing—a dream of brewing beer in handmade pottery fermenters—are inching closer to reality.
On Showing Up and Letting Go
Some days, showing up for yourself feels impossible. A long shift at the factory can leave me drained, with little energy to create. But even on those days, I make it a point to visit the studio, even if just to grab a beer from the fridge. Walking past the empty tables and clean wheels reminds me of the work I’ve done to create this space and the potential it holds.
It’s easy to feel like you’re falling behind, but I’ve learned to embrace the ebb and flow of creativity. Showing up, even briefly, is still showing up. I remind myself how lucky I am to have this space and the time to create. It’s a privilege to work for the pots and to still have the ability to make something meaningful.
Finding Grace in the Tools of Survival
As creators, it’s easy to seek external validation. But true fulfillment comes from self-acceptance, self-value, and self-validation. These tools allow us to create for ourselves first and then share our work with those who care.
This mindset has changed how I approach pottery. I no longer feel the need to chase trends or gain approval from everyone. Instead, I create for the joy of the process, confident that my work will resonate with the right audience. This freedom has been transformative, allowing me to focus on what truly matters.
Clearing the Clutter: Tools and Thoughts
In decluttering my studio, I’ve also cleared my mind. Excess tools, processes, and systems can weigh us down. By identifying what I truly need, I’ve created space for new ideas and fresh energy.
Letting go isn’t easy, especially when tools carry memories. But I’ve found that simplifying my workspace has helped me focus on the essentials. It’s a reminder that sometimes, less really is more.
What’s Next? Looking Forward
As January progresses, I’m diving into new projects with a renewed sense of purpose. The wine festival is just around the corner, and I’m excited to showcase my latest work. Beyond that, I’m committed to showing up daily in the studio, embracing both the challenges and joys of creation.
I hope this newsletter inspires you to reflect on your own creative journey. What tools, projects, or practices can you let go of to make space for what truly matters? Here’s to a year of showing up, creating with intention, and embracing the process.
Closing Thoughts
Thank you for being part of this journey. Your support fuels my work, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to share these reflections with you. Here’s to a year of meaningful creation!
Warm regards,
Alford Wayman
Creek Road Pottery LLC
“Work that matters for people who care.”
