I took two pottery courses over the course of 7 weeks. One of the courses specifically addressed the techniques used in hand building pottery and the other course specifically addressed the art of wheel throwing pots. Going in to this experience inspired by my father's hand built and wheel thrown pots, I thought I would for sure enjoy the wheel throwing experience more. However, by the end of my 7 weeks exploring both methods, I find myself more drawn to the hand-building techniques. I like how the hand built pots are more deliberate and thought out, and also more uniquely shaped with a more lengthy creation process. Most of my wheel thrown pots were not thought out, and just happened to work for me the day I attempted to make them. The wheel was also much harder for me to learn than I thought it would be. Most artistic things come fairly naturally to me, and the wheel was very tough for me to become comfortable with. All in all, I did enjoy the hand building techniques better, though I must say it was the most fun to use those techniques to alter wheel thrown pots so my pots have a bit of both styles.
I thoroughly enjoyed taking these courses and hope to return to pottery again one day!