The Story Behind the Desert Bloom Bowl

The Desert Bloom Bowl holds a special place for me, even though I’ll eventually pass it on to someone else. I created it with the goal of stepping outside my usual techniques. I wanted to move away from the traditional rounded base and instead chose a hexagon shape, giving the bowl a modern yet grounded feel. I later realized on a bowl that was reclaimed that I like the look of a round inner foot with a different shaped outter foot better. I plan to make more of these in the coming months.
The glaze was another experiment. I envisioned a warm brown background with blue drips, like desert flowers blooming. This blend came out even better than I’d expected and has a look that feels right at home in the Southwest.
A Lesson in Patience: From Mistakes to Mastery
This piece didn’t come together without its own challenges. My first attempt had me trimming the bowl’s foot too eagerly, and I actually cut through the clay. I had to approach the second attempt with more care, almost like a meditation in patience and precision. It reminded me that experimenting with new shapes is a process, and each lesson along the way is part of the art itself.
The Unique Character of the Desert Bloom Bowl

What really makes this bowl special to me is its blend of familiar and new. The hexagonal foot combined with a round rim creates a shape that feels both modern and organic. I haven’t seen many pieces quite like this in functional pottery, which gives it a unique character all its own. With the earthy brown glaze and cool blue drips, the bowl has a warmth and texture that reflects my love for the Southwest.
Passing It On, But Keeping the Inspiration
As much as I love this piece, I’ve decided to let it go, knowing it’ll bring joy to someone else’s space. I’m already envisioning a larger version of this bowl, which I’ll keep on a shelf in my home office as a daily reminder of how far I’ve come. For now, I’m glad to offer this one for someone who connects with its shape and feel.
Creating for Ourselves: Art as Personal Appreciation
As artists, it’s easy to feel like we need to create pieces that fit other people’s tastes. But sometimes, it’s essential to create something just for ourselves, as a reminder of why we love what we do. This piece was one of those moments for me—a reminder to appreciate my own creativity, even if it means stepping outside the usual and creating something unexpected. Taking time to make art we love, with no strings attached, lets us connect with our passion and builds our appreciation for our own work. I can't wait to make a larger Desert Bloom Bowl for myself.
For Those Drawn to Desert-Inspired Pieces
If the Desert Bloom Bowl resonates with you, you might also enjoy the Sagebrush Glow bowls in my collection. They share a similar vibe with square bottoms and a warm amber glaze that brings a bit of that desert glow to life.
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