What’s in a Name?

I chose the name Clay Harmony for my polymer clay business for several reasons. The most obvious reason is that I will choose colors and designs that work harmoniously together. I’m not much into clashing or shocking color schemes, although they have their place in design, too – especially for items geared toward younger folks, it seems.

A second, deeper meaning of the name is a more personal one. I want my designs to reflect balance and harmony – a more spiritual aspect, if you will. The mere act of creating anything of an artistic nature is inherently spiritual, and polymer clay is so versatile that my creativity is virtually the only limitation as to what I can do with it.

The concept of balance has always been an important one to me, from the earliest days of my involvement in desktop publishing. The visual “weight” of images and type on a page affect the viewer’s attitude toward it, whether consciously or subconsciously. If it’s out of balance, it’s just slightly disturbing. Of course, a little disturbance may be the designer’s intent, depending on the purpose of the document.

The same principle applies in polymer clay items. It just has to “look right” (which to me means being balanced). When it’s in balance, there is harmony, and that harmony is pleasing to the eye of the beholder.

Going beyond color schemes and balance, I’m interested in tribal or ethnic themes in my creations – especially African and Native American images. I’ve been to Africa and have several friends from there, so I’m sure my experiences will influence my pieces from time to time. And since I’m from Oklahoma, the “land of the red man,” it’s a given that Native American symbols and colors will appear, also.

As I grow older, my desire for inner harmony, as well as in my relationships with others, is more pronounced. All the above aspects make Clay Harmony the perfect name for this endeavor, and that name makes me very happy indeed.