I

love

imperfection

Autumn in Melbourne

Now that I'm living in Melbourne I'm really appreciating the Autumn leaves more than I use to. The colours are very pretty, but not as varied as they are in Japan.

A little something for earth day.

New Studio

I found a local community studio to make my Japanese pottery (thanks to my brother's girlfriend). The pottery studio is run by Jenny, who has an amazing wealth of knowledge about everything ceramic.

Today was my first day to use the studio space, which I spent making plates and bowls. Most of my work is made by hand, rather than the electric wheel. I find the wheel produces forms that are too perfect for my liking.

My goal is to begin selling my work as soon as I get back from my travels around Australia, which should begin VERY soon...and my other goal is to have a ceramic sculpture exhibition towards the end of this year.

Green tea and wagashi

Shadow Photography

Shadows

Dessert at a friends place

So GOOD!

Parts of Japan

Here are two pieces I brought back with me from Japan. The rest is on a ship heading to Melbourne.

The Secrets of the Weeds

Usually people just pass us by....

Never looking twice at us.

But if they ever looked close at us...

They would discover just how beautiful we really are.

Shhh! Don't tell anyone! Let's keep it a secret between just us!

Goal Achieved - Return to Australia

I've been back in Australia for just over a week now. At first, it was a bit strange and difficult at times. As you read on, you'll find out why.

Since being in Japan, my spoken English has become filled with Japanese, so I've had to make a conscious effort not to reply in Japanese in Melbourne. For instance, last week I was at Vic Roads getting my licence changed over. When my named was called out I replied with "hai!", rather than "yes", which would have been more appropriate. I also need to stop bowing when I meet people for the first time! But I'm not bowing when I use the phone!

Another thing I noticed is that everyone is so friendly and easy going! I completely forgot about that one. I'm also enjoying the lack of rigidity in Australian culture.