We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Dorel Dalya Pollack a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Dorel Dalya, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. We’d love to hear about when you first realized that you wanted to pursue a creative path professionally.
The idea of embarking on a professional artistic journey blossomed during my time as a full-time mom. Building my home pottery studio allowed me to satisfy my artistic cravings whenever I had the opportunity. Initially, I was content with this setup, continuing to sell my products on Etsy on a small scale while managing the responsibilities of raising my kids. As time passed, I noticed my children becoming less dependent on me, granting me more personal time during the day. This newfound freedom sparked a period of self-reflection, as I grappled with redefining my identity beyond being the primary caregiver. Amidst this contemplation, unexpected opportunities arose, leading me to embrace the role of a small business owner.
Dorel Dalya, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
I am Dorel Dalya Pollack, a self-taught pottery artist residing in Maryland with my husband and two children. Originally from Istanbul, Turkey, my artistic journey has been a diverse exploration of various mediums, including oil, acrylic, charcoal, mixed media, and photography. Despite this rich experimentation, I struggled to find my unique artistic voice.
My introduction to clay happened unexpectedly while living with my husband in upstate New York. Stumbling upon a pottery studio in Warwick, I found myself intrigued by the possibilities of working with clay, prompting me to ask, “why not?” Since then, my life has been intricately intertwined with the art of pottery.
Now based in Maryland, I specialize in creating functional ceramics such as dinnerware, drinkware, tableware, and lamps, all designed to enhance living spaces. What brings me immense pride is the commitment to crafting sustainable products. This dedication not only positively impacts the environment through eco-friendly practices but also serves as a means to raise awareness about the importance of choosing sustainable options. I believe that my creations can inspire others to make mindful and eco-conscious choices in their purchasing decisions.
Is there mission driving your creative journey?
I am deeply passionate about my creative business, where I not only have the opportunity to craft sustainable products and fulfill my artistic aspirations but also make a positive impact on the environment. While this venture has been a fulfilling and secure choice, I’ve decided to embark on a journey of personal and professional growth. Recently, I took a significant step by reenrolling in college with the goal of pursuing a career as an Art Therapist. This decision reflects my commitment to expanding my skills and knowledge, as well as my desire to use art as a therapeutic tool to support others on their emotional and mental well-being journeys. I am excited about the possibilities that lie ahead and the opportunity to combine my love for art with a meaningful career in helping others through the transformative power of creative expression.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
As a pottery artist, practicing mindfulness becomes an integral part of my creative journey. Mindfulness allows me to be fully present and engaged in the creative process, embracing each moment with a deep sense of awareness. When I’m creating with clay, mindfulness helps me deeply connect with the material. It’s all about tuning into the sensory experience, feeling centered, enjoying the feel of the clay, and appreciating the subtle details of each movement, especially when using the potter’s wheel.
Mindfulness in art goes beyond the physical making to include emotions and thoughts. It means recognizing and embracing whatever feelings come up without judgment. Whether it’s the joy of inspiration or the difficulty of self-doubt, mindfulness helps me stay aware without reacting strongly, letting me navigate the ups and downs of the artistic process calmly.
The practice of mindfulness also opens up space for intuition and spontaneity in my art. By letting go of any preconceived notions and future concerns, I can tap into a flow state where creativity flows naturally and authentically. This state of being fully present in the creative moment fosters a deep connection between my inner self and the external expressions of my art.
Outside my studio, being a mindful artist influences how I see and engage with the world. It means being keenly aware, drawing inspiration from nature, and understanding how art and life are connected.
Mindfulness enhances my artistic journey by keeping me present, deepening my connection with creativity, and helping me approach the artistic process with curiosity, openness, and an appreciation for the transformative nature of art.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.etsy.com/shop/DorelDalyaSeramik
- Instagram: @doreldalyaseramik