Last week the lovely Regina moved out of my studio. We had been sharing for about 3 years and it had worked really well. I know for absolute certain that I would not be where I am now if she had not suggested that we might share a studio together.
I remember our first open studios. I was so nervous that I simply could not sit still. I had to go for a walk half an hour before the kick off because my leg muscles were twitching so much! We have both come such a long way since then. Both of us have gained a huge amount of confidence. I have completed the ceramics diploma and she has virtually completed a course in silver smithing and jewellery making which has seen her incorporating her ceramic work into beautiful rings.
Now we have come to a parting of the ways. I suppose the time was probably right. Regina needs somewhere to work where she can solder, which is difficult at Wimbledon due to the fact that they are not very keen on naked flames and, to be honest, I was spreading so much that I was in danger of backing Regina into a small corner much of the time. So she has packed up her wheel and gone. I shall miss her! I enjoyed her company and I loved her work and I wish her well.
When I arrived at the studio for the first time since she had packed her bags it seemed very empty! So, since this marks the beginning of a new era – the first time I have ever had my very own studio – I decided to give it a lick of paint and then spread myself. I am very sorry, Regina, but it really hasn’t taken me very long to move into your side and I have to confess I am loving the fact that it is my mess.
You have been a great friend and I wish you all the best, wherever you end up making. What ever happens, don’t stop creating!
Meanwhile, Studio 403 is now open for business and for those of you who have been waiting to hear from me about some work: Thank you for you patience and I am getting right onto it now.
Bridget Macklin 