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Potter's 20-Day Trip Becomes 3-Month Deep Dive
25 Sep
Summary
- An artist extended a 20-day pottery study to nearly three months.
- She dedicated over 400 hours to mastering the moon jar form.
- The artist switched her throwing direction after intensive training.
An artist's initial 20-day pottery study in Icheon, South Korea, unexpectedly evolved into an immersive three-month journey. The artist, Sophie Chai, sought to enhance her skills with master potter Lee Hyang-gu, known for his large moon jars. Chai's stay began as a focused improvement session but quickly deepened into a profound connection with the craft.
During her extended stay, Chai dedicated approximately 410 hours to the pottery wheel, concentrating primarily on the demanding moon jar form. This rigorous practice led to significant technical advancements and personal growth. Notably, she altered her fundamental throwing technique, transitioning from a counterclockwise to a clockwise motion.
The intensive experience provided more than just pottery skills; it offered a path to healing and focus after challenging life events. Chai learned to work with clay on a larger scale, developing a heightened awareness of her movements and the material's response. The mentorship also fostered a unique cross-cultural communication through translators and shared determination.
Chai's time with Lee Hyang-gu marked a pivotal chapter, transforming a planned course into a life-altering experience. She gained a deep appreciation for the decades of refinement behind Lee's methods, recognizing the privilege of being entrusted with such knowledge and transforming her approach to ceramics.
