What I Learned from Charity

I am the proud owner of a new Charity Davis-Woodard cup. It came in to my possession a few days ago when Charity left our home for California. While she was here, we enjoyed long conversations about pottery, art, relationships and price. Yes, price. We both struggle with how to put monetary value on our work. I tend to be low in price with the idea that I want my work to be used everyday without concern for breakage and chipping. In my mind, keeping the price "affordable" allows for the freedom of casual use of my pottery.

Now that I've lived with my new mug for a few days, and in response to having Charity join us for our Holiday Sale, I'm changing my mind. There are a few reasons why I like this mug from Charity. I know her and value her friendship. I know the effort that goes into each piece. Her voice expressed in clay is unique and thoughtful and yes, her mug costs $50. All these add up to a mug that I reach for every morning to use for my coffee. When I'm finished with my morning cup,  I clean it, dry it and place it up high on a shelf. I now believe, in contrast with my previous thoughts, that it's good to elevate the everyday (mundane?) to more of a ritualistic, joy filled experience. This is what Charity's mug provides for me. So pay more and elevate your day with handmade and more expensive pottery and treat it better than you would other objects in your life.