Chances are that if you’ve run into me during the past four months, I’ve talked your ear off about my upcoming pottery show. It’s been in the works since last November, and all summer I’ve built towards it. But now “upcoming” means “in two weeks.” While I’m keeping busy with a host of last-minute details I’m mostly struck by the collaboration that has marked the process.
My sister Katie taught me the carving techniques featured prominently in one of the sets, and she did some of the pieces herself.
I’ve made the decisions for glazing, but my mom, my flat-mate, and my covenant friend have all shared in that mysterious work.
Many of you have allowed me to talk through various iterations of this show’s themes and logistics, and in the past few weeks my family, friends and even colleagues have been spreading the word.
All this is fitting for a show centered on hospitality. The chain from farmer to grocer to kitchen ensures we do not eat in isolation, and the wisdom of companionship insists we should not eat alone. Gifts of the table come to us through many hands.
“Dialects of Welcome” celebrates that rich indebtedness. In addition to the pottery, my mother and sister will be cooking food inspired by both Thai and Midwestern cuisines, and friends new and old are warmly invited. Please join me on October 11th, any time from 5-10 PM, at Indy Clay Co-op Gallery (950 Hosbrook St., Indianapolis, IN 46203) for a night of original ceramics, good food, and conversation around a generous table.
