Lately, thoughts about abandoning my work in smokeware have been creeping into my mind. Instagram, once my go-to social platform, has changed so drastically and repeatedly in the past year that I’m barely able to reach my audience. Anything related to the topic of a particular flower’s consumption is flagged and shadow banned. I tried out Pinterest, but my merchant status was revoked at the height of the holiday season. Even as I write this blog post, I have to be careful with my words as I want my SEO to work for me. Selling smokeware also comes with extra high merchant fees making reaching a reasonable profit very challenging. 

Additionally, it seems like everyone is making smokeware these days. More and more artists and brands are making pieces that run the gamut in design and functionality. And there are some really gorgeous pieces out there. So, it makes me wonder - am I just another drop in the bucket?

Why do I persist?

I’ve had a very (VERY) long relationship with my girl, Mary. This beautiful being has seen me through so many phases in my life. And she evolves with me and aids in my evolution. Through darkness and the light, she’s been a friend indeed. This relationship has been so beneficial to me, that I want others to know her the way I do. I want to show people her caring, nurturing side and that she’s not the villain she’s made out to be. I want to show how to commune with her with care, love and respect. And I want to discuss how very unique each individual’s relationship is with her. I mean, our bodies come designed with an endocannabinoid system! We produce our own cannabinoids! It’s like we’re partners in this life. We’re meant to be. 

When I took my first pottery class, we went around the room sharing what brought us to clay. From day one, I knew I wanted to make a bong. I just wanted to make my own piece. Yes, of course I wanted to make a mug. That’s what everyone wants to make! But that mug was going to match my bong. 

I love smoking devices and how they function. There are so many ways to puff. So many different personalities and dynamics, whether one isn’t out of the closet or proudly displays their vessel with pride. I love pairing the art of ceramics with my smoking ritual, considering different occasions and scenarios, smoking with a friend, or with a group, or just by myself in the bath or even while cooking! So many ways, so many reasons. Most of all, I love pairing a smoking device or accessory with another everyday item or ritual, because everyone knows that coffee and canna go beautifully together. 

In this new path I’m on, I’m allowing myself to take more time, to be more curious, and create something I truly love and want to share with the world. I want to make vessels that people will cherish and maybe help them evolve their view on my favorite plant ally. 

With that said, things have been coming alive in the studio. I’ve been working on some new forms and trying out new textures and glazes. I’m also continuing my work on portals, playing with the idea of using a mirror as a meditation tool. Stay tuned, I’ll be sending out an update soon on what’s firing in the kiln. 

Til next time, have an amazing day!

Mel