I want to talk about milestones. They are the shining markers that define a life. I don't know about you, but my milestones seem to come in clusters, or perhaps I am just more aware of how truly interconnected life is when I reach a milestone.
Firstly, I've reached a new level in my work. Until now, I was, in theory and practice, a hobby potter. Everything I made I gave away. I liked the freedom of making whatever I felt like making. I also liked sharing this great gift I've been given with others. Monday, March 1, that all changed. I made my first sale to a lovely friend. I had, until this moment, turned away requests to buy my work, but when G asked to buy a mug, I agreed wholeheartedly. It was right timing; kismet. You see, G and I have this special relationship - we are sisters in art. Several years ago I was G's first sale, and now we've gone full circle and she has become mine. I've waited with expectancy for just this moment, and I have been greatly blessed, moving through this journey from glory to glory. I am so glad I could share this very important milestone with such a dear artist.
I love that this milestone came during Women's History Month. It certainly made history for me, but this causes me to pause and think of all the women who have come before me, and will come after me, that won't be recognized for their contributions to this world we live in. What are the complexities that cause women's work to go unacknowledged, unknown, and undocumented? Suppression? Sure. Subjugation, domination, authoritarianism, tyranny, despotism, general cruelty? Probably. Fear? Yeah, I guess. At the heart of it, though, I don't think women feel the need to be recognized for their work like men do. I think women are more likely to make art for the pleasure and self-satisfaction it brings. If it also brings accolades, great. If not, that's okay too. Perhaps I'm way off base, that's just the lens I see through at the moment.
This month also marks the first anniversary of my speaking about my journey at the Clay Stories session at the 2016 NCECA Conference. It was a great exercise in stepping out in fear. I am so glad the quiver I heard in my voice is not evident in the listening! There were many wonderful stories shared that evening, and I welcome you to take an hour and listen to them here:
So, today, before I continue down the road to the next milestone, I celebrate those firsts that mark our lives. Selah.