tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7860339995630490592024-02-02T09:58:20.120-08:00Michele Ogilvie TeacherMICHELE OGILVIEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01552616942774240031noreply@blogger.comBlogger8125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-786033999563049059.post-43218638762967682802023-06-06T15:57:00.007-07:002023-07-04T08:25:16.493-07:00Wheel Thrown Vases • Ceramics II <p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO0s8dstYHSCHaRR1zLriCmIMbPWTrI0ZHOVo3tpv4Cj_G7me-AjphJ4G5h6lmTsI0XdHY4nHQo33-ph87m8qpRGCUnB0cx1lRafF6l0g15fACzw-zCFutiEwWqHKqnR2aLCBrcYU18j8FTWD6YlwzLcRJVxOsRBr_Y4i5Muo5giko8dE-XLDravVJ/s4320/__Vases%20on%20display.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4320" data-original-width="1440" height="1449" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO0s8dstYHSCHaRR1zLriCmIMbPWTrI0ZHOVo3tpv4Cj_G7me-AjphJ4G5h6lmTsI0XdHY4nHQo33-ph87m8qpRGCUnB0cx1lRafF6l0g15fACzw-zCFutiEwWqHKqnR2aLCBrcYU18j8FTWD6YlwzLcRJVxOsRBr_Y4i5Muo5giko8dE-XLDravVJ/w512-h1449/__Vases%20on%20display.jpg" width="512" /></a></div><br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjltS8itZDXnTifS4_uUhbaF0KU2P8q_OOtOJUm_2lcSwRjMjT9K10iFv2hRfP3vobduC2tGXMV8CNVBW0Qx8Ctia_KxZT3t8fOE9jiFCgbekTJiTY5EFhFNadfIxxiz0MJY-8KPN-CrS7W4Kd9foAzOepqay5EMDzKVNNAoBTbq9wwTAeXk7-RRW2d6hw/s853/Student%20Work_Functional%20copy.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="853" data-original-width="612" height="666" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjltS8itZDXnTifS4_uUhbaF0KU2P8q_OOtOJUm_2lcSwRjMjT9K10iFv2hRfP3vobduC2tGXMV8CNVBW0Qx8Ctia_KxZT3t8fOE9jiFCgbekTJiTY5EFhFNadfIxxiz0MJY-8KPN-CrS7W4Kd9foAzOepqay5EMDzKVNNAoBTbq9wwTAeXk7-RRW2d6hw/w478-h666/Student%20Work_Functional%20copy.jpg" width="478" /></a></div><br /><br /><p></p>MICHELE OGILVIEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01552616942774240031noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-786033999563049059.post-81975994706064498032021-06-11T11:19:00.006-07:002021-06-11T11:30:40.965-07:00RISE • an open letter to my students<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="377" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/seMErRuxH4E" width="453" youtube-src-id="seMErRuxH4E"></iframe></div><p></p><p>My Dear Students, June, 2020. •.
Remote Learning </p><p>When we rise to face a new day within the whirl of despairing global
realities; working and learning within the confines of our house, our
rooms, our narrow periphery—it may seem in some strange way that we are
spinning in place. Amidst so much unexpected confusion, pain, and
sadness, your education experience, for now, has unexpectedly become
pixelated and splattered with emotional roller coasters. While you are
learning, you are also trying to figure out what is going on in this
world, how you fit into it, and what you can do about it. With such
varied circumstances, it is certain that some are more directly and
deeply affected than others. We wrestle with emotions that are cut deep
from the wounds of our families, our friends, our histories.
I meet you with as much pep as I can muster because it is
difficult for me too—to see you waking these days with tasseled hair,
bleary eyes, and with varying degrees of enthusiasm. </p><p>Nevertheless, I try
to teach you art—'sculpting' of all things using air-dry clay that we
mix with mud found in our backyards. We make animals: frogs and
chameleons to be exact. We talk about symbolism and how many cultures
around the world consider them to be totems of renewal. I hope in some
small way these experiences will bring you closer to nature and provide
you with a brief moment of peace. We find, however, that woven between
the solace and play of creating you must also face your mistakes, trial
and error cycles, frustrations, smoothing out bumps, and repairing deep
and superficial cracks. We pull in strategies not least of which is a
sense of humor and a willingness to accept that we are all trying to do
the best that we can. You notice that this process holds a mirror up to
life.
And, because of what I know about Art, I want you to
believe, as I believe—in the magic of Art; in the power and language of
aesthetics; and in the alchemy of materials. I want you to notice that
turning a malleable blob of clay into something imaginative can open
your heart to sensations that have nothing to do with pixels—yet, has
everything to do with the nature of your Spirit, with touch, with
experiencing the world and what it actually means to take an
intelligent, heartfelt creative leap that translates your emotions into
form. </p><p>As your last pieces take shape and find their place in the
Schoology Album, I am touched and proud to see that you have learned so
much. I hope if not now, then sometime in the future when you look back
on this historical time and talk about it with your families, friends,
children, nieces, and nephews you will also think of some of these
experiences and how our Land Art video moved so many people with your
sentiments and our Once Upon a Time: in the Land of the Frogs video made
people smile when we all needed that the most. I hope you also enjoy
the culminating video I just finished for you called Rise: Ceramics
I-IV, 2020!
Art can heal. I know this from the depth of my soul. I
appreciate sharing this time with you and I am so moved by your
willingness to learn under these very surreal and horrendous
circumstances. May you stay strong, healthy, and kind—and may you always
remain open to learning new things. </p><p>With much Love and Peace to you All,
Ms. O.</p>MICHELE OGILVIEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01552616942774240031noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-786033999563049059.post-19827722171679793302021-06-11T10:51:00.007-07:002021-06-11T10:56:53.840-07:00ART = LIFE
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 150%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">ART = LIFE</span><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 150%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Michele Ogilvie, MFA; Upper School Visual Art Faculty:
Ceramics/Sculpture</span><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 150%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 150%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">A very long time ago, let’s say
roughly 35,000 years the hands of a cave-dweller created the first known
Zoomorphic sculpture that has been named <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Lion-Man
of Hohlenstein-Stadel</i>. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The 1939
discovery of this roughly twelve-inch-tall hand-carved mammoth-tusk ritual
object, as wells as over 200 stone Venus figurines from various parts of the
world allows us a glimpse into humankind’s earliest examples of creative, symbolic
expression. Artifacts carved, sculpted, and painted by anonymous individuals
throughout history not only hold the legacy of human life on Earth but also
reveal our collective search for meaning, aesthetics, and utility. Art is the
guardian of our heritage, our cultures, rituals, beliefs, and curiosities. It
is the common language that escorts us through historic doorways to our present
musings and future contemplation. </span><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 150%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">At the level of learning to make art
in school, it is often thought of as an elective, an activity that is fun and a
welcomed distraction from academics. It is of course all of these things. Yet,
when an individual or group dedicates their life to self-expression such as the
diversity of artists that students learn about in our K-12 Visual Art classes,
it has reached a level of commitment that allows us to see the greater scope of
what art is, how it reflects history and culture, and how a valued artist comes
to be. </span><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 150%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">On a philosophical level, I ask my students
to consider the many ways in which we view the world around us and how these perceptions
are shaped by our individual and collective experiences. We take note of the
many things that shape a life and a personality including one’s family,
culture, opportunities, economics, politics, religion, and social media. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It becomes clear that we are constantly and inescapably
navigating the expectations and dynamics of both chosen and chance circumstances.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our purpose calls on each of us to reach
towards our greatest good; to allow for mistakes, to let go of perfection, to
be kind to ourselves and others—to acknowledge that we are all here on this
planet—to learn, and sometimes—to forgive. </span><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 150%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">We view art as we view life. Art in
all of its various forms reflects life. Art brings us closer to the authentic
expression of humankind’s survival, determination, and resilience. If you
understand art—you understand connections and abstractions—as art is, at its
highest—a manifestation of personalized thoughts and feelings into form. It is
that way with music, poetry, painting, and sculpture—in all things that channel
the heart through the hand or the voice. Art on a psychological level can also serve
as a map to the subconscious—the subconscious of an individual, as well as that
of a society. </span><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 150%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">When teaching about art and artists
from around the world I ask my students to consider not only such things as
form, surface, craftsmanship, and aesthetics—but also about each artist’s experiences,
obstacles, and choices. We respectfully acknowledge the privilege of peeking
into their stories, their shadows and their souls. To present one’s art can
sometimes feel like sharing a secret. What does an artist’s creative work tell
you about their life? How do you feel about their story? </span> </p>
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{page:WordSection1;}</style>MICHELE OGILVIEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01552616942774240031noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-786033999563049059.post-17842828782989735072020-04-20T06:47:00.001-07:002020-04-20T06:55:08.874-07:00Land Art Project: Art meets Nature<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 24px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
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<span style="background: white; font-family: "cambria" , serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 22px;">Remote Learning: 9-12th Ceramics/Sculpture<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: cambria, serif; font-size: 11pt;">by Michele Ogilvie, MFA. • Visual Art Upper School Faculty</span></div>
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<span style="background: white; font-family: "cambria" , serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 22px;">It’s surreal to sometimes think of how things go on this planet, within our world, our places that we call home. To go beyond the why of things can often send us into a whirl of confusion. It is sometimes easier to look for distractions. I am an artist and teacher of art. I am searching to strike a balance within the frame of education and the challenges we all face right now during this pandemic. I look up often these days to notice large billows of clouds that go from grey to pillow white against a backdrop of rolling hills behind my house. The rain has been generous this year and every branch holds tender new leaves. I am in awe of this beauty, this quiet that our neighborhoods have not seen for decades. I understand that there is a price for this rebirthing. People are suffering, businesses are closing, so many are losing their jobs, homes, and sometimes their lives. This confrontational paradox and social distancing have us spinning in place. Our physical periphery has grown smaller, while our confounding predicament expands to every nation on the globe. This crisis is existential and beyond that—lies the inevitable realization that our lives and our entire world is changing. There will be much repairing to do. Politically, educationally, economically, emotionally and spiritually. There are remnants of optimism—some scrounge for the hope that we will bear witness once again to humankind’s tenacity, and resilience. So many are saying, “History repeats.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: white; font-family: "cambria" , serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 22px;">As I teach my remote art classes, I spend time with a generation of people that will no doubt eventually save this world. They are so strong, intelligent and earnest. They meet me on Zoom conferencing, which at first felt strange, but we are all quickly adapting to this way of connecting. We have been talking a lot about the creative correlations between art and nature. I encourage them to go outside and look for beautiful things: flowers, trees, sunsets, clouds. We share our snapshots with each other in albums on Schoology. We study land art artists such as Andy Goldsworthy (b.1956), Dietmar Voorvold (b.1957), Robert Smithson (1938-73), and Nancy Holt (1938-2014) and how they relied upon nature to construct sculptures that shed light on the transience and existential aspects of life on earth. We discuss how these artists developed an intimate understanding of how things in nature function: the ebb and flow of seasons; the acceptance of change and uncertainty; how the rush of rivers, the shifting tides, and erosion can alter or wipe out a constructed sculpture made from fragile, meticulously placed interconnected natural found objects such as twigs, vines, leaves, icicles, and stones—within an instant. We discuss how all of these things refer to the precarious function of balance and play a metaphorical role in representing the full cycle of life: birth; existence; and transitions that take us back to a beginning.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: white; font-family: "cambria" , serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 22px;">Observing and taking part in this trial and error process is a bridge that leads us towards creativity. We notice that this represents a willingness to take a leap of faith into the unknown and accept that outcomes can often be unpredictable. We acknowledge the subtleties of our own personal perceptions—what is it that we sense; how is that we feel; what is that we want to convey? Within this process, there is always something to be learned about ourselves and our relationships with each other and the world. Voorwold talks about aspiring to find a place of stillness with complex and simple shapes by setting them in serene environments while allowing the forces of nature to intervene. He describes that in the human condition there is a struggle, there is a breakthrough, and there is serenity. He explains, “Nature is full of truth, fully in the moment, nothing artificial about it.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: white; font-family: "cambria" , serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 22px;">My 9-12 grade students have been creating their own land art sculptures. I am blown away by the depth and conceptual understanding that they have brought to this project. I am sincerely moved by their willingness to fully dive into this experience of exploring the connections between emotions, art, and nature and I believe that for many it has been a healing and comforting experience. We hope you take the time to notice how precious and profound these pieces are.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "cambria" , serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 22px;">Please visit: <a href="https://youtu.be/UNeZ1-x6Auo" style="color: #954f72;">LAND ART by BWS Students, 2020</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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MICHELE OGILVIEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01552616942774240031noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-786033999563049059.post-25356864741813656892017-12-23T07:14:00.002-08:002017-12-29T14:24:07.896-08:00The Transformative Magic of Art <style>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio8KP8_KD_Exi89vK1Z6bNB4jnk-6oIq2oVcsBIl20iN8pMrpPTiq6ySa2GM1Kf_yZydoomnamy4nFVdYp5qKPhRzKo-VLYzpqi3NFNl3fCaULgziGiYlDA9KUPOC_M8koM-dp65So2_o/s1600/Jack.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1196" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio8KP8_KD_Exi89vK1Z6bNB4jnk-6oIq2oVcsBIl20iN8pMrpPTiq6ySa2GM1Kf_yZydoomnamy4nFVdYp5qKPhRzKo-VLYzpqi3NFNl3fCaULgziGiYlDA9KUPOC_M8koM-dp65So2_o/s320/Jack.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">By Michele Ogilvie<br />
Starting at a young age, learning to appreciate and create art sets the frame
of inspiration that can lead to discovering the magic of right brain creative
potential. Everything that we see and touch was designed and created by
someone; or as in nature — a force greater than our selves. Through the complex
process of problem solving and making art, students ultimately gain a better
understanding of themselves, and the world around them. Simply said, creating art
is an essential and beautiful way to launch into self-discovery. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">One of the most important things that I enjoy about creating
art and teaching Ceramics is the realization that Art can be so much more than
just making stuff. At its' best it has the power to transform because it
requires slowing down, and entering into a Zen-like frame of mind. Because clay
is such a tactile material it can also physically and metaphorically connect us
to the Earth while also offering a reprieve from academics and digital
technologies. Making Art can be a gateway to learning and teaching about
intangible things such as patience, intuition, insight and sensitivity. It can
be a window into the deeper aspects of ourselves and connects us to the
world in meaningful ways. I am always so grateful when students tell me that
Ceramics class has given them a moment of peace in their hectic day. On the
last day of the semester, I asked students to reflect on some of the most
important things that they learned in the class. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Following are a few of their
comments:</span></span> </div>
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<span style="color: #0b5394;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times";">In Ceramics I, I learned a lot, about clay and about
life. When working with clay, I had to learn to be patient and not rush things.
This also applies to life and school. In all cases, it is very important to be
aware of what you are doing at all times so as to avoid mistakes. When you are
in control of what you're doing, you can make good decisions and will get
better results, both in ceramics and life. — EM 9<sup>th<br />
<br />
</sup>This semester, I have not only grown as an artist, but as a person as
well. Working with clay has taught me life lessons and lot about myself. I have
learned the importance of patience. I leaned to not doubt myself, take risks
and have trust that I can do anything I set my mind to. — JB, 9th</span></i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #0b5394;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times";"><br />
In Ceramics I, I learned many memorable skills about how to work with clay.
These skills are meaningful because I now have the ability to sculpt my
imagination into real life objects. The freedom in being able to transform a
ball of clay into a functional piece is very valuable and does not compare to
anything else. — WH, 9th </span></i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #0b5394;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times";">I thoroughly enjoyed ceramics this semester and I am
so glad that I pushed myself to take the course at the level II. I saw myself
develop skills on the wheel that I could never have fathomed. I enjoy the
relaxation of allowing the clay to glide through my hands and the feeling that
I can essentially do anything within grasp. It is so rewarding to struggle with
something and overcome the struggle with frequent success. — AS, 12th </span></i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #0b5394;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times";">This semester of Ceramics I learned so much more than
I thought I would. With patience I learned how to create things I never thought
I could with just my hands. I really liked the turnout of all of my pieces,
especially my Greek-style vase. — EJ, 10th</span></i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #0b5394;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times";">For me, ceramics was a very valuable course to take.
It taught me not only about a new art form, but also about life. I have
definitely loved my decision to take this course as I have had immeasurable fun
over the past few months. I learned many practical techniques while engaged in
this course. One huge one would have to be patience. — TL, 9<sup>th</sup><br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
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<span style="color: #0b5394;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times";">My major takeaway from this class is realizing how
much confidence I gained in my creative abilities by working through some
challenging projects. Looking back at what I created I will always be reminded
that with a little practice and a ton of patience anything is possible. — JG, 9<sup>th</sup></span></i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #0b5394;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times";">I loved getting to know my classmates. I liked coming
to class everyday because I found it relaxing. One of the most valuable things
I leaned would be connecting your mind with the clay, if that makes sense.
Ceramics really helped me to become focused on what I was doing. — TM, 10th <br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
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<span style="color: #0b5394;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times";">To know that you created something usable with your
own hands gives you a sense of accomplishment. — AP, 9th </span></i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #0b5394;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times";">I enjoyed this class very much and I would highly
recommend it to fellow classmates. I learned useful techniques and extensive
knowledge about Ceramics. I was never stressed in this class. I had good
experiences and hope to take it again. — EJ, 9th</span></i></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "times";">To view creative work by
some of these students, please be sure to check out the hand-built Greek
inspired vases with personalized sgraffito carvings in the South Quad display
case. Up through February 2018. </span></i></div>
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MICHELE OGILVIEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01552616942774240031noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-786033999563049059.post-24669362800973082602017-10-18T19:08:00.001-07:002017-12-23T07:50:32.574-08:00Zen in the Art of Ceramics<h3 class="post-title entry-title" itemprop="name">
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 10pt;">By Michele Ogilvie</span><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=9166188706244811432" name="_GoBack"></a></h3>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "arial";">The process of making art is
a way to investigate and expand our perceptions of the world. If approached
intuitively and authentically the creative process is an inspiration. The word ‘inspire’
essentially means to give life with breath. An inspiration is like an
intentional inhale — a breath taken in, as one may experience during mediation
and yoga. When a work of art inspires, it can move us to discover evidence of a
universal and personal journey that contains the essence of life’s unexplainable, existential mysteries. Through the process of slowing down to
observe the world, being introspective, and dreaming of possibilities that
spring from the heart and the imagination, can we reach the healing potential
of creative experience. It is through slowing down; practicing focused
mindfulness; doing one thing at a time; and thinking about what is necessary
that can make the act of creating a Zen experience. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "arial";">Ceramics in particular
offers a window into this type of discovery because clay is a basic tactile
material that physically and metaphorically connects us to the Earth in a
timeless way. It is essentially a right brain activity that offers a holistic
approach to learning about intangible things such as intuition, insight and
sensitivity. In a beginning Ceramics class students will often declare how difficult
it is because it requires a willingness to move their hands in ways that may
seem quite awkward at first. It requires slowing down, focus, and a commitment
to accepting that the process can be more important than the outcome. Any
initial intimidation is overcome with practice, determination and patience.
Once a student sees the alchemy that transpires between mud and maker, they are
understandably amazed by their own handmade accomplishments. Along the way,
they may have also learned some valuable things about Zen. <br />
<i>© M.Ogilvie, All rights reserved.</i></span></span></div>
MICHELE OGILVIEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01552616942774240031noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-786033999563049059.post-78854453800176592442015-06-01T15:16:00.000-07:002015-09-18T16:51:18.384-07:00MY TEACHING • MY LEARNING<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihX2_AuokMWFScNLOPCRRebnosxxpCn-OmEhtde2er64TmVJPPSNrD7JbJUcK4dGAbUz82WpBGO-UsAcfmMrTq_AUdZUnAzG4qtze4UDIveS0ay2MS1XYB4UGoPqdNLzOWYv5LGf2-mqI/s1600/YogaART.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5615614796759476914" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihX2_AuokMWFScNLOPCRRebnosxxpCn-OmEhtde2er64TmVJPPSNrD7JbJUcK4dGAbUz82WpBGO-UsAcfmMrTq_AUdZUnAzG4qtze4UDIveS0ay2MS1XYB4UGoPqdNLzOWYv5LGf2-mqI/s400/YogaART.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; float: left; height: 400px; margin: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 216px;" /></a><strong style="line-height: 19px;">YOGA ON and OFF THE MAT</strong></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; line-height: 19px;">I have learned that the process of making art is a way to investigate and expand our perceptions of the world and our relationship to it. If approached honestly and intuitively the creative experience becomes an inspiration—a breath taken in—like we experience on our mats. When a work of art moves us, it reveals evidence of a personal and universal journey that contains the essence of life's unexplainable existential mysteries. Through the process of creating, slowing down to observe the world, learning to breathe intelligently, moving towards introspection, dreaming of the possibility of peace and universal healing—Yoga mind and intention weaves it all together. It is the string that connects Spirit to Absolute Intelligence, Nature, Creativity, Love, and Potential.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; line-height: 19px;">As a teacher and practitioner of <strong>Art</strong> and <strong>Yoga</strong> I have consistently witnessed and experienced first hand the potential of these disciplines as opportunities towards healing and realization. I am certain that <strong>Yoga</strong> and <strong>Art</strong> complement each other as personal and collective gateways towards a greater understanding of the self, the world and our responsibility to these things. It is my hope that as we learn to experience the transformative qualities of Yoga, we also open to the potential of creative expression so that our journeys can extend into the fascinating depth of our subconscious and beyond. —<em>©Michele Ogilvie, all rights reserved.</em></span><br />
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MICHELE OGILVIEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01552616942774240031noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-786033999563049059.post-71502900490083256552014-05-30T16:41:00.000-07:002015-09-18T18:27:47.919-07:00"I'M NOT GOOD AT ART..."<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .25in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
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<span style="color: #434343; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">WHEN A STUDENT </span><span style="color: #434343; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">comes to me and
declares that they are “not good at art,” it is my job to help erase the
conversations and experiences that brought them to this misconception. The
competitive burden of personal, parental, cultural and academic performance
expectations is often the reason a student can at first, feel self conscious in
an art class. Young people and adults alike have often confided in me that they
were told at some point in their lives that they have no artistic talent. As these
things go, if they have heard this more than once, they may accept it as truth.
This is the old school <i>genius myth</i> that perpetuates the idea that in order to
create art, one must have a special artistic gene or lineage. This cannot be
further from the truth, and breaking down the walls of a misconception like
this can sometimes be a tricky thing.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #434343; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-font-kerning: .5pt;">Each semester I work with students
with varying degrees of creative confidence. An art class such as Ceramics is
particularly difficult for many students because they are not only confronting
the conditioning of their creative belief system; they are also learning new
and difficult skills such as throwing forms on the potter’s wheel. In the
beginning this can be an extremely frustrating experience. Yet, I am always
moved by the determination and practice my students are willing to invest in
order to learn this skill. Along the way, some students fall in love with the
experience, while a few may never pursue it further once they complete their
projects. Either way, a higher purpose has been served, and I am certain that
they are leaving this class not only with a greater sense of their creative
potential, but also with a warranted degree of enthusiasm for their
accomplishments.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">At the close of this semester, I
asked Ceramics I students to reflect on how they managed to overcome some of
their frustrations while they were learning to throw on the potter’s wheel. I
offer a few of their responses here:</span></div>
<i><span style="color: #38761d;">“Throwing gave me the opportunity to become more patient. One day I had an epiphany. I realized that some days will not be the best but you must bring a positive mindset and a drive to succeed to have a productive day. Since this epiphany, I have been able to overcome my initial frustrations in ceramics and outside the classroom as well. To be honest, nothing is like throwing. I felt very relaxed and calm and very comfortable in this Art class unlike in my past. I feel I have found an artistic side of me I would like to pursue in the future. I feel that in addition to getting over my frustrations, ceramics has enabled me to view different sides of myself and to accept who I am and not care what others think of what I do and like.” —EG, freshman<br /><br />“Throwing this semester was a very interesting process in which I observed various qualities in myself and the world of art. First, just like any sport I learned to accept that there would be good days and bad days and in order to improve you must embrace your bad days, work through them and learn from them. I also learned it was about taking risks. Ceramics has expanded my problem-solving skills, patience and overall way I view the art world and myself.” —TL, freshman<br /><br />“Learning how to throw was an especially difficult process for me. I had to constantly be reminded to slow down. Generally, I attempted to approach everything with the goal of getting it done as quickly as possible. But learning to throw really helped me with my patience. It really taught me that all I needed was to slow down in order to fully accomplish my goal. Another thing that I learned from throwing was not to get flustered. When I got flustered, I would never actually finish throwing a complete piece; when I remained calm it was much easier to work and finish a piece. I believe that these two lessons I have learned from throwing will continue to help me for the rest of my life. Thanks for a great semester! —RT, sophomore<br /><br />“Throughout the process of ups and downs, I learned how to problem solve and found that the only way to overcome frustration is to move on and to start something new. Sometimes I had “sculptor’s block”, but was able to stay calm and focused enough to create some of my best work on the wheel. At times I became very nervous when sculpting and would think about how I would be able to finish some of my projects. But I just conjured up memories of other hardships I had been able to overcome, and pushed these thoughts aside to create many things I am proud of. —AS, freshman<br /><br />“I think the wheel taught me to take my time with what I was doing and to put in the effort to be the best that it could possibly be. The more I threw I found the better I got and the more I enjoyed it. I liked that no matter how tall my piece became I could always go higher or make my form more complicated, it made it so I was never bored during class time. The wheel also taught me to trust myself. At first I was hesitant to trim my piece on the wheel, but now I like it because I have learned to trust my hands and my choices. I really enjoyed this experience.” —AB, sophomore<br /><br />“I really enjoyed throwing on the potter’s wheel because it was a nice break from all the stress of school. Even though it was hard at first to accomplish, I really enjoyed creating a bowl and a vase that I know I will use. The past few months throwing was a great experience because I got to try something new and set a goal for myself and I felt a great sense of accomplishment fulfilling my goal at the end and looking at my vase I created. During the process, I was a little weary as to if I could accomplish my goal. But after seeing my vase and realizing I made this, I felt a great same of accomplishment that really made my day. I now realize throwing is not just a class for me, it was a track that I could release my stress and put my energy and hard work into creating something I could be proud of.” —NR, sophomore<br /><br />“Throwing on the potter’s wheel was very difficult at the beginning. Most days my pieces ended up as a floppy blob. Overcoming my frustration was very difficult. I would try for days and still have an uneven cylinder. Each day I would try to think of what I was doing wrong and fix it. I soon realized that I had to slow down the speed of the wheel, and then the clay became a lot easier to work with. I don't remember learning how to walk, but I think learning to throw would be just like learning how to walk. When you are learning how to walk you get up and then fall down countless times until you can stand up. When can stand then you would put one wobbly foot in front of the other until you can run. This really reminds me of throwing because you start slow with many failures until you become really good and then you move onto the next step. I had a great feeling of accomplishment when I was able to throw a good cylinder. Throwing taught me to be a lot more patient. Instead of trying to make the cylinder as fast as I could so I would have time to finish, I realized that rushing only gets you a floppy cylinder. I really like making stuff that is functional. For some reason food tastes a lot better when it is from something that you have made. I loved being able to come in here and throw. It was a break from the stressful day.” —JK, freshman</span></i><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d;"><i><a href="https://youtu.be/v_SJ6SbXSAg" target="_blank">Click here to view BWS student potters in action!</a></i></span>MICHELE OGILVIEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01552616942774240031noreply@blogger.com0