As we chatted over coffee under the shade of a tree in her garden, Louise Howard, Bloemfontein pottery teacher, shared a cherished tradition with me.
Each morning during class, her students take a brief coffee break, a ritual that adds a touch of camaraderie to their routine.
It is not merely about pottery; it is about forging bonds and fostering a supportive community.
Stepping into her studio is akin to entering a sanctuary of inspiration and warmth.
Her students, who hold her in high esteem, readily attest to the magic she instils in every class.
Louise radiates pride and gratitude for the opportunity to guide and inspire countless individuals on their creative journeys.
Her dedication to her craft and her students is a testament to her unwavering passion for pottery and teaching.
In a world so often characterised by hustle and bustle, Louise’s studio stands as an oasis of tranquility and creativity – a place where individuals can connect, create, and find solace in the joy of making something beautiful with their own hands.
I asked Louise a few questions.
What advice would you give to someone who is just starting their art career?
Get a well-paying job so that you can have money for your creative hobby.
What piece of advice have you received that has had a lasting impact on your artistic practice?
Do it for yourself, not for others. Stay true to yourself.
How have you stayed motivated and managed to overcome creative blocks?
Just keep going. Work through the hard times.
When did you first begin teaching pottery classes?
I started giving class 31 years ago.
How do you balance teaching pottery and pursuing your own artistic endeavours?
While teaching, I satisfy my creative desires. When I help a woman make something, I enjoy making suggestions to make a piece more pleasing to the eye.
How do you believe pottery and art contribute to society and individual well-being?
Playing with clay, I become quiet and forget the world outside. It is good therapy.
Do you believe pottery has the power to convey messages or evoke emotions in viewers?
A clay item always tells a story. It is a thing of beauty.
- Unveiling Bloemfontein’s Hidden Art Gems by Mariaan Kotze, Bloemfontein artist, regularly appears in BloemNews, as well as on the paper’s dedicated pages on Netwerk24 and News24.
