Why pottery ?

Leaving a well-established career in aviation to become a potter may sound like a leap of faith, and for me, it actually was. It was not even a move that I had dreamed of in my wildest dreams. The act of shaping clay, the meditative rhythm of wheel-throwing, and the satisfaction of creating something tangible with my hands was supposed to be just a hobby, albeit for life.

The pressures, stress, and constant hustle of the aviation industry began to take a toll on me. I found myself yearning for something slower, more tactile, and deeply creative. So I decided to join a brief summer program of handbuilding pottery and the peace and calm those few days gave me were enough to keep me going for a couple of years when I would come back to it again, with more rigour and time at hand.

Additionally, pottery gave me the freedom to reconnect with my true self. In aviation, my days were dictated by schedules, protocols, and the expectation to perform at a certain level constantly. Pottery, on the other hand, allows for personal expression and an element of surprise in every creation. I found myself immersed in a world where creativity dictated my plan for the day and my mind would yearn to create an tangible form out of that raw uncooked thought.

Pottery offered me a perfect balance. It was such a stark contrast to my aviation career, where precision was most important. Everything was supposed to be timed and as per protocol. But with clay, it was return to simplicity, a connection to the earth that was missing from my corporate job. Pottery isn’t just about creating beautiful objects; it’s about the process, the mistakes, the learning, and the unexpected moments of inspiration. It’s a practice that allows me to embrace imperfection, something I was not accustomed to in my job.

Transitioning into pottery wasn’t without its challenges. There were times of doubt, financial concerns ( a lot), and learning curves. But every time I finished a piece, whether it was a simple mug or an intricate vase, I felt an immense sense of accomplishment and purpose. Pottery isn’t just about creating objects; it’s about bringing something unique into the world, something made with intention and care. It’s about slowing down, being present, and embracing imperfection.

Today, I’m living a life I once only dreamed of—surrounded by the creativity and freedom that comes with being a potter. I wake up excited to work in my studio, shaping clay and bringing new ideas to life. Leaving my corporate job was not just a career change; it was a life change. It allowed me to rediscover my creativity, to find joy in the process, and to build a business that reflects who I am and what I value. And while I may have left the corporate world behind, I’ve found a new form of success—one that is far more fulfilling and true to myself.