My hands cup a mound of wet clay, soft and misshapen. I turn my wheel on; it is fast and consistent, rhythmic and predictable. The wheel is the foundation that creates the ability to shape the clay. Its movement is essential. I slam the clay down in the middle, sealing it to the wheel. I begin to slowly apply pressure as I start the first step of the throwing process: centering the clay. This step allows the clay to become workable; but it is physically demanding and extremely difficult. Without it, the piece will inevitably be lopsided or, worse, fall apart completely. The clay is worked…
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