Visiting La Borne ended being quite the journey. I’m just starting to process what it might mean for me but also what this place has been for years and meant to many ceramists, as the village and surroundings are home today to around a hundred potters and ceramists. La Borne has been a pottery village for several centuries (since the 15th or 16th century according to what I read online) due to the abundance of clay and wood. After a decline due to other industries in the 20th century, the village underwent a rebirth and has attracted ceramists from many countries, and in the the second half of the 20th century oriental style kilns like anagamas or noborigamas appeared- now many potters have a kiln in their backyard. For those who don’t however there are many options to fire with fellow potters, or for example the anagama kiln of the Association which can be rented and shared. I find the concept of the “four de l’asso” beautiful because it’s a collective ressource that can bring potters together without having their personal kiln. One thing that strikes me about the La Borne region, and it seems France in general is that I find a particular warmth and solidarity among potters. I’m leaving this place feeling a profound inspiration for what I could do with my life, with clay, and what it might mean to live as a potter or artist in France one day, just maybe. Feeling blessed to have discovered this place and for the connections with beautiful people there. Surely I will be called to come back as it seems many others are. Can’t wait to see my buddies at the @pottersguild in January! #laborne #lesgrandsfeux #noborigama #anagama #kiln #pottersunite #poterie #pottery #ceramics #keramika #woodfiring #gres #clay #sculpture #path @annemariekelecom @renaud_regnier @bethbolglastudio @petit.lucien @davidwhiteheadvanikaap @herverousseau.boisbelle (at La Borne, Centre, France) https://www.instagram.com/p/BqBJI0hAO8e/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=daxfg6ejzx9a
