The pottery craft dates back to ancient times. Numerous archaeological finds confirm that the first handmade clay products belong to the Neolithic period. Strong clay figures and everyday objects in the brightest colours that have survived to this day tell the story of an ancient craft that developed over time to such an extent that it became an art.
Clay is a common material, which was generously gifted to mankind by nature. And humans have used it for a long time. At first they tried to mould from it the most necessary subjects (dishes for cooking, cups, plates), practical and unpretentious. With time, after the pottery wheel was invented and firing methods were opened, the shapeless piece of clay in the hands of professional craftsmen began to turn into exquisite products.
New pottery functions
Pottery has long been an important and honorable craft that only good masters could do. It was constantly improved and developed. But gradually clay was replaced by metal, tin, and then plastic, with which the natural material could no longer compete in terms of price and application.
It is impossible to imagine that this kind of ancient art could completely disappear. However, history is developing in a spiral, and today there is a surge of interest in working with clay. But now the pottery trade reveals itself on the other side.
If previously the craft was a source of income, now it is in most cases a way of relaxation, creative expression. Along with, of course, the existence of fashionable ceramic workshops that produce truly valuable designer items.
About the benefits of working with clay
For kids 4-5 years old use molding is mainly that it helps develop fine motor skills, and classes are held in an exciting form: playful, children learn the properties of clay. In contrast to working with plasticine, molding from clay requires special preparation of material that develops children’s responsibility, logical thinking.
For children 6-7 years old clay gives the opportunity to actively develop their imagination. Practical skills of interaction with natural material are quickly grasped, at this age, the child can already develop the design of his handicraft, the plot of the composition.
For adults, working with clay is also beneficial. It is very relaxing and soothing. The hobby easily develops into a serious hobby. By the way, there are methods of clay therapy aimed at reducing aggression, eliminating phobias and negative emotions in adults. If for kids work with clay is a way to discover something new in the world, then for an adult it is a way to find personal harmony.
Working with living material extracted from the bowels of the earth, a man as if comes into contact with nature, getting a charge of energy from it. When an adult lowers his hands in clay, he abstracts from the outside world, concentrates on his inner resources. Pottery, in its therapeutic effect, can be compared to a walk in the woods, rest on the seashore. The fact that contact with nature saves from fatigue, emotional exhaustion, does not need proof, and clay is a natural material.
Pottery is one of the oldest and most interesting crafts. But if previously it could only be done by craftsmen, now work with clay is available to everyone. Anyone can create their own works, while receiving a positive energy charge.
