Q&A: What are the Most Common Pottery Myths?
IF YOU KNOW SOMETHING, YOU DON'T HAVE TO BELIEVE
- Karl Jung
A shortly worded question but a long answer as misinformation spreads when ignorance is present.
In many instances potter’s think they have a technical problem but the underlying cause of many issues is false information… a myth. The making of ceramic objects is at best part science and part intuitive art. In the past, the basic science of pottery production was somewhat hit or miss. Without an extensive understanding of the underlying theories concerning ceramic materials the potter was often left with myths and inaccurate information on forming techniques, glaze formulas and firing processes. Often, the uncertainty of results called for reassuring myths and dogma. Have you ever seen a “kiln god” a figure resting on the top of a kiln to insure good firings? If you even somewhat considered this superstition a necessary part of firing the kiln, you don’t know how to fire the kiln. The potency of any myth depends on its ability to play on the human condition or fear, uncertainty and lack of knowledge, all of which can be present in the making of pottery.
Surprisingly, once some potters recognize the myths present in their pottery making practices they still do not want to let them go.
Listed below are some of the many myths which still circulate in the pottery community. Rid yourself of these beliefs and you will come out of the dark.
Myths, misinformation and mistakes:
Myths are a small sample of inaccurate “facts” that are available from other potters, the internet, magazine articles, books and some educational institutions. While ceramics myths can be fanciful and appealing they often contain misinformation regarding raw materials, forming techniques and kiln firing. Oddly, they can include accurate pieces of information but also transmit an incorrect understanding of the ceramic process which, if followed, can cause wasted time and effort. Myths lose their power to lead us astray when accurate information is at hand. It is only through an extensive and diverse ceramics education that misinformation can be challenged. The first question to ask when needing and receiving help is: do I know this information is true?
Economic myths:
Economic myths concerning the production of pottery are the most costly in terms of a potter’s time and labor. Pottery making is time and labor intensive. Not recognizing these factors is the leading causes of pottery business failures. It is said that potters without business skills do not do as well as business people who become potters. Potters do not take into consideration − or they underestimate − their time and labor. As a general rule, the more you touch the pots, the more they cost to make. The most effective advice for a potter who wants to sell their work is to start by taking business courses. As with many of the myths listed below first ask yourself… How many pots could I make in the time it takes to execute these ‘cost saving’ myths.
In many instances potter’s think they have a technical problem but the underlying cause of many issues is false information… a myth. The making of ceramic objects is at best part science
