As we all keep saying, these are strange times. For me, the COVID 19 crisis has been tough, but has come with some silver linings for my ceramic work. In normal times I have a part-time job (non-ceramic related) which provides very welcome regular income, as well as variety, stimulation and colleagues (!). However, during the crisis I have been furloughed from that work.
Initially my time was swallowed with childcare as my son’s nursery was closed, but I quickly established a pattern of running into the studio during his nap (handily just outside my back door) and getting as much done in 1.5hrs as possible! Which is actually a surprising amount. I had to be very focused and know exactly what I wanted to achieve, but an invitation to send some work to Cambridge Contemporary Art helped provide some of that focus and I managed to get a box of work that I was proud off to them on time!
Since the beginning of July my son has been going back to nursery 3.5 days a week, which means I get that time to spend in the studio - 3 days more than usual! So I am currently working hard to stock my shelves and my website in preparation for Christmas (I know, but I have to start thinking about it now) when I will hope to do some small fairs and get back into the rhythm of making and exhibiting again after maternity leave.
I will return to my job 2 days a week in August, grateful that they are able to take me back, unlike the situation that many will be in. So I am currently counting myself very, very lucky.