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From Clay to Creation: My Artistic Process Behind Each Piece

Writer's picture: Sydney KennedySydney Kennedy

Updated: Oct 1, 2024

Exploring the Artistic Process of Handmade Ceramics: From Inspiration to Creation


There’s something truly magical about turning a lump of raw clay into a finished piece of art. It’s a process that’s both grounding and inspiring, full of moments of discovery and challenge. For me, each creation begins with an idea, often sparked by nature, the colors around me, or even just a feeling that strikes at the right moment. In this post, I want to take you behind the scenes of my artistic process here at Your Sister's Pot Shop, from the first spark of inspiration to the shaping of each custom hand-thrown ceramic piece on the wheel.


Inspiration: Where the Journey Begins


Beach sunset with a golden sky, people on the shore, and beachfront homes overlooking the ocean.

Inspiration can strike in the most unexpected places. I find myself constantly drawn to the natural world—whether it’s the calming rhythm of the ocean, the way waves form smooth curves in the sand, or the delicate shapes of flowers in bloom. These elements often make their way into my small-batch pottery, influencing both their form and color. Sometimes, I’ll catch myself admiring the soft petals of a flower or the way a bloom gently curves towards the sun, and I think, How can I capture that in clay?


But it’s not just nature that inspires me. Moods, memories, and moments all play a role too. I might be in a calm, reflective state one day, leading to a series of soft, rounded shapes, while a burst of energy on another day might translate into more angular, dynamic designs. This is part of what makes each piece I create unique—no two are ever exactly alike.


Choosing the Form: Functional or Artistic?


Once I’ve got an idea brewing, I start to think about how I want to shape it into reality. Will it be a functional piece, like a bowl that will be used daily, or something purely artistic? This decision is important because it guides the next steps in the process.


I love making handmade ceramic bowls in particular. There’s something comforting about the simplicity and functionality of a durable ceramic bowl. It’s a piece that can be used for everything, from serving meals to holding cherished items. Creating functional ceramics that are both beautiful and practical is something I truly enjoy. My custom hand-thrown ceramic bowls are crafted with care, knowing they’ll become a part of someone’s daily routine, whether filled with food, memories, or simply sitting as a decorative piece in the home. Each piece is one-of-a-kind, reflecting the thought and craftsmanship behind it.


Working with the Clay: Hands-On Creativity


Once the vision is clear—or even when it’s not—it’s time to get my hands dirty! I do most of my work on the wheel, and while I often have a general idea of what I want to create, there are plenty of times when I don’t. Sometimes, I just sit down at the wheel, start throwing, and let the clay guide me. There’s no set plan—just me, the clay, and a flow of inspiration that unfolds as I work.


Person focused on shaping clay on a pottery wheel, wearing a denim apron and covered in clay

When I throw without a specific design in mind, the piece almost feels like it’s being drawn out of my head as I go. It’s a spontaneous and freeing process, allowing me to stay open to wherever the clay takes me. The result is often something I didn’t expect, and that’s what makes it exciting. Every piece has its own journey, and sometimes it reveals itself as I work with it.


While I do enjoy hand-building from time-to-time, there’s something about the rhythm of the wheel that pulls at me. The spinning wheel brings a certain calm and focus that helps me lose track of time. Even when I don’t have a specific plan, the wheel becomes a space where ideas and shapes emerge, turning raw clay into custom hand-thrown ceramics, each piece uniquely crafted by hand.


Why the Process Matters


For me, the process of creating handmade ceramics is more than just a series of steps—it’s a journey that connects me to the earth, to creativity, and ultimately, to the people who will use or appreciate my work. Each piece I make holds a little bit of my heart, from the initial idea to the way it takes shape in my hands.


There’s something deeply fulfilling about knowing that these durable ceramic bowls and one-of-a-kind handmade ceramics will go on to live in someone’s home, becoming part of their everyday life or treasured as unique works of art. The process isn’t always perfect, but that’s what makes it so meaningful. Every piece has a story to tell, and I’m grateful to be the one shaping that story with my hands.



I’d love to hear from you: Please feel free to leave comments, share your thoughts, or ask any questions you may have. For more behind-the-scenes content, follow me on on Instagram and Facebook at Your Sister's Pot Shop. I also encourage you to sign up for my newsletter to stay up to date on new pieces and blog posts.


Explore My Collection: Visit my shop to see the latest creations and find a piece that resonates with your story. Every purchase supports an artist’s dream and helps me continue to create from the heart. Let’s build a community that values courage, creativity, and the beauty of handmade art. I can’t wait to see which piece speaks to you!


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