Harmony Pottery, pottery teacher

Harmony Pottery

Harmony Pottery

location_on Doreen, Melbourne

local_activity classes: Clay Sculpture and Hand BuildingPottery

5.0 (6)
Instagram followers3k

From Architect to Artisan: A Creative Odyssey

As I sit in my cozy pottery studio, my hands covered in clay, I can't help but reflect on the journey that brought me here. It's a journey that spans from the structured world of architecture to the boundless realm of artistry. This is my story, a story of transformation, passion, and the pursuit of a dream.

Chapter 1: The Architectural Beginnings

I was born into a family that appreciated art and creativity. From a young age, I was drawn to the world of colors, shapes, and forms. I would spend hours sketching, painting, and experimenting with various art mediums. It was evident that I had a deep love for the arts.

When the time came to choose a career path, I followed my artistic instincts and enrolled in a fine arts program. However, life has a way of taking unexpected turns. Financial constraints and societal pressures led me to pivot towards a more "practical" field – architectural engineering.

Chapter 1 of my journey saw me immersed in the world of architecture. I designed buildings, sketched blueprints, and worked on various construction projects. It was challenging, demanding, and required meticulous attention to detail. I became a full-time architect, dedicating my days to creating structures that would stand the test of time.

Chapter 2: The Turning Point

Years went by, and while I found satisfaction in my architectural work, there was something missing. The artist within me never truly went away. I still yearned to create with my hands, to mold and shape materials into something beautiful.

Then, in the year 2020, the world changed. The COVID-19 pandemic forced us all to reevaluate our lives and priorities. It was during those uncertain times that I made a pivotal decision. I decided to follow my lifelong dream of working with clay and crafting pottery.

The decision was met with mixed reactions from friends and family. Leaving a stable career as an architect to venture into the world of art seemed risky, even foolish to some. However, deep down, I knew it was the right choice. I needed to reconnect with my true passion, no matter the challenges that lay ahead.

Chapter 3: Embracing Pottery

My journey into pottery began with a single lump of clay. It was both daunting and exhilarating. I enrolled in pottery classes, learning the fundamentals of hand-building and wheel-throwing. Each day was a new discovery, a step closer to becoming the artisan I had always wanted to be.

Pottery became my refuge, my escape from the chaos of the outside world. It was in the rhythm of wedging clay and the precision of shaping vessels that I found solace. The tactile experience of clay under my fingers was a revelation. It was as if I had unlocked a long-lost part of myself.

Chapter 4: The Priceless Calmness of Creativity

The transition from architecture to pottery brought me an immeasurable sense of calmness and love. Unlike the fast-paced world of construction deadlines, pottery allowed me to slow down and savor the process. It was a meditation of sorts, a way to connect with the present moment.

In the quiet of my studio, surrounded by the earthy scent of clay, I found a deep sense of peace. The act of creating pottery became a form of therapy. It allowed me to express myself, channel my emotions, and connect with the raw beauty of nature's elements.

Chapter 5: Inviting Others to Experience Creativity

Having experienced the transformative power of pottery, I felt a deep desire to share it with others. I wanted to create a space where people could disconnect from the digital world, reconnect with themselves, and tap into their creativity.

Thus, I opened my own pottery studio, a cozy and welcoming haven where individuals could escape the technological frenzy of modern life. It was my way of extending an invitation to others to experience the same joy and serenity that pottery had brought into my life.

Chapter 6: A Creative Community

The response was heartwarming. People from all walks of life flocked to my studio. They came seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life, a chance to unwind, and the opportunity to get their hands dirty in the world of clay. It was a place where strangers became friends, and creativity became a shared language.

We held pottery classes, art parties, and creative family bonding sessions. Birthdays were celebrated with clay instead of cakes. It was incredible to witness the transformative power of art as people tapped into their creativity and found a sense of accomplishment.

Chapter 7: The Joy in Simplicity

As I look back on my journey, I realize that the pursuit of my artistic dream was the best decision I ever made. The joy I find in the simplicity of creating pottery is beyond measure. It's a reminder that life's true treasures often lie in following one's heart, even when the path seems uncertain.

I invite you to join me in this creative adventure. Step into my studio, leave behind the noise of technology, and reconnect with your inner artist. Let's mold, shape, and create together. Let's rediscover the magic in the act of crafting, for life is too short to stifle the artist within.

Epilogue: A Life Transformed

Today, as I sit here with my hands immersed in clay, I am filled with gratitude. My journey from architect to artisan has not only transformed my life but has also allowed me to touch the lives of others. It's a testament to the power of following one's passion, of embracing creativity, and of finding solace in the act of making art.

My story is a reminder that it's never too late to pursue your dreams, no matter where life has taken you. So, dare to follow your heart, and who knows, you might just discover your own priceless source of calmness and love.






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Reviews

(6)


Michelle Guessenhoven Feb 2024


Loved my first class. Maya was so patient and friendly. Highly recommend Maya’s classes.

Hand Building Clay Workshop: Platter review by Michelle Guessenhoven - Melbourne

Jodie Woodburn Jan 2024


This was a Christmas gift to my Gran. We had a gorgeous time! Maya walked us through everything in her beautiful space.

Angel Wong Dec 2023


I went to Harmony Pottery with a few friends to celebrate my birthday. This workshop led by Maya was an exceptional experience which I thoroughly enjoyed. Maya was a great teacher who taught incredibly well to my friends and I - who were all beginners with no prior experience. She was extremely personable, warm and friendly! Her studio was so cozy and the hours genuinely flew by. I could tell that Maya was genuinely passionate about her craft and sharing this joy with others. I recommend this workshop for anyone and everyone, her prices were affordable and absolutely worth spending. Thank you so much Maya for a wonderful experience and making my birthday so special <3

Chloe Bartlett Dec 2023


Our teacher Maya was so lovely and welcoming, it felt like we already knew her. The studio in her home was warm and cosy and gave us a safe place to be creative.
All materials were provided which made the process so easy and we used flowers and leaves hand picked out of her beautiful garden. Perfect mother, daughter activity and worth every cent, we’re excited to book in again for our next session! So much fun, great gift idea!

Emily Soccio Nov 2023


Maya was such an incredible teacher! We didn’t really know what to expect walking into the class, but we had such an amazing time! We look forward to booking again some day.

Teacher's response

Thank you, Emily! I’m thrilled that you enjoyed your experience and we can't wait to welcome you back for another booking in the future.

Sarita Lemme Sep 2023


Absolutely fabulous experience, Maya was so inviting and knowledgeable well worth it and I learnt so much

Hand Building Clay Workshop: Platter review by Sarita Lemme - Melbourne

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