In this week's edition of MudFOLK we chat with Aubrey, one of our potters, an avid reader and Enneagram 6w5.
So grab your favorite mug and settle in. But first, take a look at the base of your MudLOVE mug near the handle. See that little mark or picture imprinted into the clay? This maker's mark is unique to each potter and guarantees that your mug was made by strong and thoughtful hands. If your mug's mark is a sun, Aubrey's hands carefully threw threw your mug. Now let's get to know Aubrey a little better!
What do you wish we knew about your job?
I wish people knew that my job takes practice. Whenever we give tours and people watch me throw a mug, the most common response is “that’s so cool, I could never do that.” The truth is they could do pottery, it just takes practice. I had been making wheel thrown pottery for many years before coming to MudLOVE (many years of practice), but it still took me awhile to get the hang of throwing our mugs consistently and quickly. Therefore, if you think pottery is cool but think you could never do it, give it a try and give it some practice; you might be surprised at your ability to make pottery as well.
I needed that pep talk. If you could describe your MudLOVE superpower, what would it be?
I’d say my MudLOVE super power is my ability to change the form of something. Every day I am given a ball of clay with little shape or purpose. Once I start manipulating that clay, I am able to form a completely different shape in a matter of minutes. Although this clay has not changed into different materials, it has completely changed shape and now has a purpose. I think that’s pretty cool and I get to do it many times each day over and over again.
And you're doing an awesome job! What's that *one* thing you're really into right now?
Right now I am really into audio books! At work I have a ton of time in which I can listen to anything I like and I have recently started listening to audio books! Generally, I am able to finish an average of two books a week just from listening at work. I am always very interested in psychology, sociology, and social justice issues; therefore, most of my books reflect those passions. Some of my favorite books I have listened to recently would be: Dopesick by Beth Macy, Just Mercy by Bryan Stevenson, Educated by Tara Westover, and Quiet by Susan Cain. Audio books help me enjoy my job even more because I am able to learn about things I find very interesting through my headphones while making mugs.
Send us all the audio book recs, plz. Favorite MudLOVE product?
Although we are no longer making this product, my favorite MudLOVE product is the Organic Mug: Cottonwood. I think it is a beautiful product, in color and style, and I enjoyed making the product as well.
Thanks for sharing, Aubrey! While it's true the Organic Mugs are out of stock, there are still a few select HeartLand pieces available. Like this sweet little tumbler. Or this bold vase. Shop the HeartLand collection here.
