If her ambitions lead to a career in ceramics, Ella Jensen will think of a two-headed cow as a steppingstone.
Standing among clay scraps that painted the floor below her potter’s wheel, she said the oddball idea was inspired by one of her favorite poems.
Getting a degree in ceramics may be uncommon, but it is not impossible. In fact, it is a part of Front Range Community College’s new four-year degree in business for creative industries.
Falling under the “studio art” category, ceramics is a part of this four-year degree available for students who want to start businesses with their art.
Jensen, is getting an associate of art degree and is exploring different art paths. Right now, she is experiencing ceramics.
“I never got to take any art classes in high school, even though I have always been very creative and interested in art,” she said, “I was just too busy at the time.”
Now, Jensen has found a newfound love and respect for ceramics.
“I usually wing it when it comes to my art,” she said.
Jensen creates collages on old mirrors, tables, and chairs.
“My collages are really messy, and I don’t plan out what I’m going to do, I just do it,” she said. Being in ceramics has taught her patience, intention, attention, and mindfulness. Not only when it comes to creating art, but in life in general, she said.
“I have carved this two-headed cow with intention, as I have a deep connection to the poem behind it that inspired me. I love getting to express my deeper self through my art and creativeness,” she said.
“I have gained patience, intention, and mindfulness from this course,” she said. “I learned that I can create art that is planned out, and have intention and value in it,” she said.
This project took her 20 hours, and that is just the time to carve her creation into the pot.
Although Jensen is not sure if she wants to complete this four-year degree in studio art for ceramics, she has learned multimedia art forms that are applicable to all parts of her life, she said.
“I am able to apply everything I have gained out of this course to multiple areas in my life, such as my social life, relationships, friendships, and career-wise,” she said.
“I am grateful for this experience, and it has only made me more excited to keep on making all forms of art for the rest of my life.”
