It can be difficult when you find yourself in-between projects.
I'm sure I'm not the only one who finds this feeling extremely difficult, yet when you come out the other end you realise how beneficial it was to have been given some time to think.
These are times I find I'm able to return with fresh eyes and fully focus on the new task in hand.
During these quiet times there's always something I find to do.
1: Reading
This is something I crave to be able to do when I'm rushed off my feet.
I usually take the time to do some research or revisit a subject I feel I can expand on from previous work.
2: Experimentation
Over the past months or so I've been developing a material archive using clays and canvas.
Something I've been meaning to do for a while but haven't had the time.
Using different materials, soils, oxides, and mixing them into porcelain to create a comprehensive collection of tests for future works.
3: Explore new glazes
While I have some time on my hands I've been mixing some new glazes that complement my existing ones.
4: Update website
This is the perfect time to make sure all websites or profiles are up to date with new work or upcoming events.
5: Photography
Photograph any outstanding work
6: Explore outside the studio
Changing my surroundings and exploring new places, visiting exhibitions, seeing new things, can be really helpful to move thinking forward when you feel a bit stuck.
7: Talk to others
Although I often have to gear myself up to leave the studio sometimes. I do fully understand how important it is to talk to other makers and artists.
Talks, presentations, openings are all a beneficial way of utilising time.
It keeps you fresh, informed and knowledgable.