Positive Focus Sunday - Life in the Studio

One of the wonderful things about browsing at the library is discovering new authors and books. This was the case with Francis Palmer and her book, Life in the Studio.

Actually, what initially drew me to the book was the luscious pictures of ceramics and flowers. Then I began to read.

A series of essays on different aspects of her creative and personal life makes it a book you savor. She delves into everything from how she got started on her pottery career, to her photography and her garden. And she throws in recipes!

As someone who has many interests, I really enjoyed how this world famous potter also is a fantastic photographer and gardener. Each of those interests are an extension of each other. One thing aids the other. I felt like I had been given permission to be a writer, a needleworker, and a gardener. Each of these things lend themselves to the other.

Another thing I really appreciated was her dedication to 'routine'. She has a routine, day in, day out. She is driven by her routine. 

What really moved me was this quote, "Every pot sent out into the world is an extension of myself." I feel that way about my endeavors - there is a piece of me in every one of them. 

This is a wonderfully engaging book, even if you aren't interested in ceramics or how a pot is made or how to arrange flowers or how her different interests came into being and meshed. The pictures are yummy, as are the recipes.