2016

Last year was quite nuts…the usual story of too many hats (but they were all such fun to wear).

• Exhibit of Porkies artwork at Grove Gallery

• 4 10-week ceramics classes at the Potter’s Guild of Greater Lansing, working toward applying to be a Visiting Potter, so that I can learn much much more

• First chance to include bowls in Empty Bowls, something I’ve always wanted to do

• Several pieces in “On the Edge”, a members exhibit at Grove Gallery

• Teaching at Interlochen in summer and fall

• Entry in Art Prize (interesting to do, but would not do again)

• Marketing and finances for Grove Gallery

• Creation of countless items for various galleries and holiday shows

• Illustration assignments

• Teaching and creating a new course in the College of Communication Arts at MSU

As I write this incomplete list I no longer wonder why I was whipped and stressed a lot, (though excited and content).

2017

What I learned last year was that I can keep up with that schedule, so I don’t have to worry about whether it’s possible. Next year will be equally busy, but I’m working to streamline things…make the hats at least go together.  I hope to remember to just stay calm, so as not to pull energy from the tasks at hand.

There are three main priorities:

• Teach my MSU class, honing it to make it better and creating an on-line version for summer terms (I think I’ll relax a LOT once that has been developed…it’s the unknowns there that make me nervous)

• Continue at the Potter’s Guild with as much participation as I am allowed

• Continue work on pieces for a January of 2018 Lansing Art Gallery exhibit with Deb Cholewicki

The rest will fall into place around these.

I don’t remember a time when I didn’t have too much on my plate. I’d rather be busy than bored. Still, I want this whole year to be working toward what matters most and brings the most satisfaction…for me and in light of doing some sort of good. It’s a perpetual balancing act and learning curve.

All I know is that I’m really looking forward to this year and all the creative opportunities it promises.