As April approaches, we're gearing up to celebrate Earth Day in the studio. Although there’s no denying that traditional practices of the ceramic industry often involve hefty energy and resource consumption, we’ve got some tips for reducing your carbon footprint around the studio!
Reclaiming Clay
One of the easiest ways to integrate more environmental practices is by reclaiming clay instead of throwing clay scraps into the garbage. These extra pieces could come from throwing water, handle pulling water, the contents of splash pans, failed pots, any clay off thrown pots with a rib, trimmings, or any other clay scraps. To start, collect these scraps in a bucket of water and mix the contents thoroughly. After the mixture is turned into a slurry, sieve the mixture and spread it over a plaster slab to dry. Once the contents have returned to a plastic state, the clay is workable again and can be wedged back up to be used for another creation!
Sourcing Local Clay
Clay can be found almost anywhere! There is an abundance of clay within our communities, including within riverbanks, stream beds, road cuts, naturally exposed earth such as canyons or gullies and construction sites. Resourceful potters seize upon this local treasure, transforming natural clay into a malleable clay body or a stunning decorative slip. To harness the potential of natural clay, it requires a thorough process. First, the clay must be thoroughly dried, reducing it to a fine powder. Then, with the addition of water and careful sieving, the clay is refined into a smooth slurry, ensuring uniformity in consistency. This slurry is then spread out on a plaster batt, left to dry until manageable. Finally, through wedging, the clay is reincarnated into a cohesive ball of potential. Yet, the journey doesn't end there. Testing and tweaking may be necessary, as each batch of clay possesses its own unique qualities. With patience and experimentation, potters can unlock the full potential of locally sourced clay!
Energy Efficiency
As makers, it is also important to consider where we derive our energy sources from. Many potters use gas kilns to fire their work. While gas and electric kilns are commonly used in studio practices, they rely on non-renewable resources. Yet, pioneers like Dawn Soltysiak and Joel Cherrico have embraced solar power and manual tools. Dawn Soltysiak uses solar energy to run Khumenu Studio, installing 78 solar panels along her roof, which absorbs and converts the energy to around 25,000 kilowatts of electricity each year. This system produces enough electricity to power her studio and fire her kilns. The placement of a kiln within a studio can also help decrease energy use. Joel Cherrico, the owner and operator of Cherrico Pottery, places his kiln in the middle of the studio, as it acts as a radiant heater in the winter months. He also dries his wares using the heat of a kiln, saving him energy and money. In another effort to be more sustainable, he has adopted the use of a kick wheel, which is powered by manually kicking the wheel head. The use of solar energy and manual tools are just a few ways in which potters can be more sustainable in their practice.
Packaging Materials
When it comes to packaging ceramics or pottery, eco-friendly options abound, ensuring your creations reach their destination with minimal environmental impact. Consider alternatives like biodegradable peanuts made from organic starch, which decompose harmlessly in water, leaving no toxic residue behind. Similarly, utilizing locally sourced materials such as recycled paper or cardboard for packaging can significantly reduce your carbon footprint. Another innovative option is mushroom packaging, crafted from the root network of mushrooms, offering a biodegradable and renewable alternative to traditional packaging materials. Embracing these eco-conscious packaging solutions not only protects your artwork but also contributes to a more sustainable future for our planet.
Through reclaiming clay, sourcing locally materials, harnessing solar energy, and embracing eco-friendly packaging, artisans are forging a path towards a greener tomorrow. As we mold clay with our hands, let us also mold a future where beauty coexists harmoniously with sustainability. So, whether you're an experienced artisan or just starting out, recognize that every effort towards sustainability in ceramics is a profound gesture towards preserving our planet. Let's come together to shape a more sustainable world, one clay creation at a time.
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Welcome to Parkdale Pottery, your premier destination for pottery classes and workshops in Toronto's vibrant Parkdale neighborhood. As a woman-owned teaching studio, we're committed to fostering creativity and skill development in clay and ceramic arts. Our welcoming studio space is designed to bring together artists of all levels, providing a supportive community where friendships flourish alongside artistic growth. Join us in exploring the boundless possibilities of pottery, whether you're a beginner or seasoned artisan. Let's sculpt, shape, and create together at Parkdale Pottery!