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Creative Moments: Studio Rituals as a Ceramicist and Mom

Writer: Sydney KennedySydney Kennedy

Updated: Oct 1, 2024

A Peek Into My Studio Rituals, Where Flexibility and Creativity Meet in the Everyday


As a stay-at-home mom, my studio time is limited, but it’s a cherished part of my day. My creative ritual is less about strict routines and more about finding moments of flow in between the rhythms of everyday life. Most of the time, I head into my studio right after lunch, when my daughter is napping. That little window of quiet is when I can finally switch gears and focus on creating something new.


A Fluid Approach to Studio Time


Since I don’t have a rigid schedule, what I do in the studio depends on how I’m feeling that day. Some days, I’ll sit at my wheel, thinking about what I want to throw—a mug, a bowl, or something totally different. Other days, I’m more in the mood to pour molds or just tidy up. My routine is flexible, and I like it that way—it keeps me open to whatever creative energy I have at the moment.


Hydration and the Perfect Drink


One thing that’s pretty consistent is what I’m drinking while I work. Lately, I’m a big Coke Zero fan, but when the heat in the studio is intense, I switch to a jug of water with Liquid IV lemon lime to stay hydrated. In the winter, I sip on coffee or tea, usually from an insulated cup because I take forever to finish it. Fun fact: I’ve only kept one of the mugs I’ve made—it’s funny how, as a ceramicist, I’m still chasing that perfect handmade mug!


Staying Mindful of Studio Safety


One of the not-so-glamorous parts of working in the studio is keeping the dust down. Clay dust can be pretty serious, and silicosis is something I try to avoid at all costs. I don’t have a strict cleaning routine, but after a lot of work, especially when there’s dust building up, I’ll pause to clean. I’ve been thinking about investing in a filtration system for the studio to help keep the

air safer, especially as my projects pile up.


The Silence of Creation


When I’m in my studio, I prefer working in silence. There’s something about the quiet that helps me focus. Music can sometimes take me in unexpected directions with my work, so silence keeps me grounded in what I set out to create. The only time I might listen to something is when I’m glazing, and lately, I’ve been listening to The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: 30th Anniversary Edition by Stephen and Sean Covey. Audiobooks can be a great companion for more repetitive tasks, but when I’m throwing, I need my thoughts to guide me.


When Creativity Peaks


I’ve found that my creativity is strongest in the afternoon, right after lunch. That’s when I feel the most energized and clear-headed. If I’ve had a workout earlier in the day, my thoughts are sharper, and my creativity flows more easily. There’s something about physical movement that helps unlock that part of my brain.


Creating Space to Create


Recently, I reorganized my studio space. I moved my storage shelves to the opposite side of the garage, freeing up space on the working side. Having less clutter makes a big difference—it helps me focus on what’s in front of me rather than feeling distracted by a mess. I’ve realized that I work best when my space feels open and organized, which is funny because I don’t always keep a strict routine, but I do value a tidy workspace!


Navigating Creative Blocks



Ceramist gently tapping slip-casting mold to spread slip.

I’d be lying if I said I never struggled with creative blocks. When I hit those moments, I tend to gravitate toward pouring molds rather than throwing on the wheel. It’s a more meditative process, almost like letting my mind take a break while my hands stay busy. I also like to take a step back and look at pieces I’ve already finished. Seeing what I’ve created in the past reminds me that I can do it—that I’m good enough, even when the inspiration feels a little harder to find.








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