Making as a Way of Interacting with the Environment

Abstract

As craft practitioners, we interact closely and intimately with materials and tools. As we learn to listen to the voice of a material, to the possibilities and limitations it presents, we adjust our intentions to what is feasible in this human-material interaction. In this way, we learn to work with the material rather than forcing our will upon it. Through the years, a solid and deep experiential knowledge grows forth that becomes embodied in our souls, becomes part of who we are. When working with a natural material, such as clay, the source of the material may be present in the work presented, but also as an idea about connecting with the environment on a larger scale through the interactions with the material. Through craft practice, we have a direct channel for interacting with our environment, as what we make changes the material world concretely, even if in small ways. We are also changed ourselves as we react and grow in this relationship. By paying attention to the material interactions we have, we may become aware of the dependency and responsibilities we have with materiality in general.