Sonia

After I was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive cancer two years ago, I supplanted my initial feelings of dread with what I now call my "Joy Program." I have since been committed to spending as much time as possible doing the things that enliven and inspire me. My decision to go on a VAWAA was directly related to that commitment. I had always wanted to experience Santa Fe, and as an avid sculptor, I was overjoyed to see that two exceptional ceramic sculptors were available to teach me new techniques, while also being able to explore Santa Fe and its environs. This was a clear win-win. 

Although I got the benefit of learning from both Kristine and Colin, Kristine took the reins to teach me how best to approach a figurative sculpture without the use of armature. At the end of the VAWAA, we were still working on a sculpture that I have brought back to the New York with me and that I am continuing to develop. The skills Kristine and Colin taught me have directly influenced the ways in which I approach each new project in figurative ceramic sculpture.