Shaping Creativity

26 March 2025Brynn W, Mack ‘25

While sports at Brentwood vary from term to term, Brentwood Arts are a year-long commitment, unless, of course, you are one of the lucky Grade 9s or 10s who have the opportunity to try three different arts in the famed Art Rotation!

Ms Cheung, Mackenzie Houseparent, explains that the Art Rotation “Gives [students] an opportunity to explore something they didn’t initially consider, and because there are so many different art opportunities that are available to students here, it would be a shame for them to miss out on an experience because they’re full or they were unaware.”

For the 10s, one of these arts is Wheel Pottery. With the help of Mr Lyons and experienced pottery students, they are set up for success. Pottery can be a difficult skill to master; even Daedalus himself would struggle as a beginner potter. Wedging, throwing, trimming, and glazing are all integral aspects of pottery which students will learn in this class.

First, students are given the chance to explore pottery by making pinch pots. A pinch pot is a hand-built vessel that is made by shaping clay into a ball that can fit in one’s hand, creating a hole in the center, and continuing to pinch the clay border until it takes the form of a bowl. Afterward, a sponge is used to smooth the finished product. Emelia V, Alex ‘27, states, “I’m so appreciative of the Grade 10 art rotation because now I have an opportunity to try new things and maybe discover my passion.” This initial project allows students to appreciate the delicacy of clay and marks the first step of their pottery journey.

Ivana Y, Mack ‘27, exclaims, “I love getting to try so many new things, especially in pottery. I can make pottery for my friends and parents, which is a nice bonus!” This pottery includes the first project on the wheel: bowls. Beginning with one to two pounds of clay, potters are tasked with centring the clay on the wheel; centring is perhaps the most difficult part of pottery, but with practice, it becomes second nature. Once the clay (and the student) is centred, they use a technique similar to making a pinch pot: create a hole in the center of the clay and create the shape and walls using both hands while the wheel spins.

The varying steps of pottery demand focus and patience, which the Grade 10s are embracing to the fullest. Beyond learning a new skill, these students are building confidence and creativity that will last a lifetime.

Brynn W, Mack ‘25

Where Students Choose To Be