I Completed an AP Inquiry. Part Two.

 

This is a continuation of my pretend AP Inquiry. I made 15 pieces of art, relating to the theme of aging.

TOP LEFT: This piece is a small drink set for a dear friend. I am hoping that for her birthday, we will be able to sit outside in her backyard, and share a toast of non-alcoholic cider. I have known Susie and her husband since we met while working at Macy's Department Store, back in 1988. We backpacked to Europe together, and we have traveled to and fro, having great meals, and many adventures.

TOP RIGHT: This is a ceramic wreath. I have made many of these recently. Wreaths and flowers are used to celebrate births, weddings, and deaths. All of these milestones are a part of aging.

BOTTOM LEFT: This is a photo of Alberta Blackett Jones, my grandma. I installed this in my classroom. My grandmother wanted to be a teacher. She was all packed, and ready to head off to college. Unfortunately, her mother developed breast cancer. My grandma had to unpack all her belongings, in order to stay and help to care for her mother. When my grandma talked about this happening, she would cry. You could hear the disappointment in her voice. Alberta wanted an education, but other things got in the way, and she had to make hard choices. I like to look at this wall box from across the room, when I'm teaching. I know that she is proud of me, and of the work that I do.

BOTTOM RIGHT: This is a sign on my clay shed. I think that loving what I do is important. Having a daily, or weekly art practice is a labor of love. During the past few years, I have been very intentional about what I make, and about how much work I make. This seems like a good sign for the front door of the studio. As I age, I've begun to tailor my work to what feels right for my mind and my body.