#327 Crafting a Life of Art, Humor, and Pottery with Emily Rowley

In this inspiring episode, we delve into the life and work of potter Emily Rowley, whose passion for clay has shaped not just beautiful pottery but also the lives of those around her. Emily shares her story from a childhood filled with creativity to a fulfilling career in pottery, teaching special needs adults, and eventually starting her own business. She emphasizes the importance of finding one's own ceramic voice and the joy that teaching pottery brings, both to her and her students. Emily also offers advice to budding potters, urging them to embrace experimentation and not fear the messiness of trial and error. For those looking to connect with Emily or view her work, her vibrant Instagram presence showcases the joyful rebellion she's leading in the pottery world. Click here to learn more about Emily @emilyrowley [https://www.instagram.com/emilyrowley/] Top 3 Value Bombs: 1. Embracing Individuality in Craft: One of the most valuable insights from the podcast is the importance of discovering and embracing your own unique voice in pottery—or any craft. Emily Rowley's emphasis on experimentation over perfection and finding joy in the creative process rather than conforming to conventional expectations encourages artists to pursue what truly excites them. This approach not only leads to personal satisfaction but also resonates with others, as genuine passion is often infectious and can define success in more profound ways than technical mastery alone. 2. Transformative Power of Following Your Passion: Emily's narrative serves as a powerful testament to the transformative impact of pursuing one's passion. Her leap from a stable teaching career to a full-time pottery business underscores the fulfillment that comes from aligning work with one's creative calling. It highlights the emotional and psychological benefits of doing what ignites your soul, even in the face of societal pressure or financial uncertainty. This story can inspire listeners to consider taking their own leaps of faith in pursuit of a more satisfying and authentic life. 3. The Role of Art in Building Confidence: Through her workshops, Emily has seen firsthand how engaging with pottery can build confidence and pride in individuals who initially doubted their creative abilities. This observation is a reminder of the broader value of art in society—not only as a form of personal expression but also as a tool for personal development. By debunking the myth that pottery is an "old lady thing" and showcasing the craft's appeal to a wide range of people, Emily advocates for the importance of art in empowering people and fostering a sense of achievement through the creation of functional, cherished objects. and so much more  Resources: Get your 53 themes by clicking this link shapingyourpottery.com/53themes [https://shapingyourpottery.ck.page/6808d5415e]