We recently connected with Deana Hicks and have shared our conversation below.
Deana, appreciate you making time for us and sharing your wisdom with the community. So many of us go through similar pain points throughout our journeys and so hearing about how others overcame obstacles can be helpful. One of those struggles is keeping creativity alive despite all the stresses, challenges and problems we might be dealing with. How do you keep your creativity alive?
Living in the desert southwest there is constant inspiration. I love the desert and its plants and creatures. The work of local photographers and painters continue to inspire me and get the creative juices flowing.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
I specialize in hand built pottery. Unlike wheel thrown pottery, the clay is rolled out like dough into a slab, then sculpted, cut, and formed by hand. Creating something with your own hands and God’s dirt is an amazing feeling.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
I have mostly learned from trial and error. These days there are u tube videos, and social media groups where you can learn so much from other artists. I have taken a few classes, but most of my experience is from the school of hard knocks!
How would you spend the next decade if you somehow knew that it was your last?
Yes! I constantly try to improve my product. I am in the process of trying new clay bodies and glazes that will improve the durability of my art. It has taken me 16 years to develop my skills, so this will be a huge challenge!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.etsy.com/shop/potterybydeanahicks
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/potterybydeanahicks/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/potterybydeanahicks
