I’ve been thinking a lot about ‘giving back’ lately. As a clay artist, what skill set can I share with others that will be meaningful? It’s one reason I like to teach; it’s nice to share some of my experience and knowledge with interested students. I also donate various creations to charity events to help raise money and awareness for their cause. I know there is more to being ‘of service’ than that. So I’d like to explore more ways to spread kindness in day-to-day life.

Garden bells are in process for a class I'll be teaching at The Muse in Frederick. Interested in having one for your outdoor space? Click on this photo to send me a message and I'll make sure you are notified of class details!

January 16 is a holiday celebrating Martin Luther King’s birth. People are encouraged to volunteer on this day to honor MLK. Service holds lots of different meanings; it can be interpreted spiritually, signify a community-driven passion or happen in simple one-on-one encounters. I think it’s most beneficial when it’s meaningful to the person providing the favor.

New heart shapes are stacking up in the studio in anticipation of Valentines Day! Reserve one for yourself or a loved-one by clicking on this photo!

Volunteering can seem impossible or time-consuming in a busy life. I think this element of sacrifice is part of the point. My mother used to write a weekly column for the Washington Post called “You Can Help.” Each article would showcase a worthy opportunity for volunteering. Sometimes we just need a suggestion of where we can help out. Google is probably a great resource for that question nowadays.

I tried out a new recipe that was shared with me for my favorite Eggplant Parmesan this past week.. That simple act of kindness fed my tummy and my soul!

Sharing is another good way to think about service. It’s an easy way to give back throughout our lives. Think of how good you feel when a family member, friend, co-worker or stranger does you a favor. Make a conscious effort to pass on the goodwill as well.

In the spirit of giving, one lucky ClayByLaura Club member will receive this Bird Feeder from my studio. Winter is an especially good time to provide for the hungry birds in your neighborhood. Remember to fill up your own with ample seed this time of year. Want one of my colorful bird feeders for your yard? Click here to shop. (and if it’s not currently in stock, I’ll make one just for you!)

The key ingredient of everything I create is passion. It pulls me to the studio regularly and sustains me even when I have a creative failure. I love the artistic process; forming a variety of raw materials into a useful and attractive item is exhilarating and satisfying all in one.

This past week in the studio was filled with endings and beginnings. This garden bell will top one of the five individual totems I've made to adorn a backyard garden and supplement several pieces I created several years ago. The complete installation is scheduled for early November.

The cornucopia I created as a surprise gift was revealed. The recipient was indeed surprised and pleased with the results. The gift-giver and I were happy too!

One customer asked me to create a large flat tray with two serving bowls. I was pleased to receive a photo text of it already in use the day after it was picked up.

Many new projects are in the works. Some of the pieces are familiar shapes. The dog-treat jar pictured in the upper left corner is a new idea in the making. It is stamped with the words "Home Is Where The Dog Is." It is a thank you gift for a very special dog-lover.

Every piece I create in the studio begins with a dose of love. It helps guide the creative process, supports me when an idea does not turn out as planned and resides in every item that leaves the studio for a new home. Love. Remember to express it daily!

From The Studio

Contact Me!