Independent study helps student discover creativity

Above features a braided ceramic pot that senior Leah Longnecker crafted in her art independent study.

How long have you been taking art class? I have taken art since seventh grade, but I started taking ceramics as a sophomore. 

What is your favorite type of art? I enjoy ceramics the most. 

How would you describe yourself as an artist? I feel like I am an patient artist. I will take my time in order to perfect a project. 

What is your inspiration for your pieces? My inspiration for my projects depends on the piece. Sometimes I look at other artists’ work. Other times I begin creating with no final product in mind. 

How would you describe your artistic style? I feel my artistic style is somewhat simple. 

How have you developed as an artist since you have started? I think I have greatly improved on the pottery wheel. I have gained a lot more control when working with the clay. 

What has been your biggest accomplishment regarding art? I feel my biggest accomplishment was last year when I received an honorable mention in the art show. 

Who is your role model? I would say [Emily] Olson (art teacher at the high school)  is my artist role model. She always has unique ideas for me to create with clay. 

Can you tell me about your ceramic pieces in the art display case? One day I decided to start braiding my leftover coils for fun. That sparked the idea to incorporate a braid into the vase I had already started creating. The braid was fairly difficult to connect to the other coils, but it was worth it. 

What about ceramics interests you so much? I love brainstorming ideas of what to create and then bringing it to life. I also love glazing because the end product is always a surprise.

Why did you decide to take ceramics? I decided to take ceramics and drawing as a sophomore to give myself a break from my classes. I then began to really enjoying ceramics.

What’s the best part of ceramics? The best part of ceramics is receiving the final product back after glazing. The glaze is unpredictable, and it’s fun to see how it turns out on every piece.

What’s your biggest challenge been this year? My biggest challenge in independent study has been brainstorming projects. In ceramics 1 and HCC ceramics, the projects are assigned. However, in independent study, you have the freedom to choose whatever you want to create.

Will you pursue your passion in art? I would love to continue painting/drawing/working with clay; however, I don’t think I will pursue it as a career.