Handcrafted with Love
At Studio Asobi, we believe that there is a place in this world for beautiful creations crafted by hand – slowly, lovingly and uniquely.
Our clay vessels each bear a name and a little haiku, and just as we have enjoyed making them, we hope that they bring the same joy to whoever holds and uses them.
The pictures below are a glimpse of our pottery works and creative process. Larger sculptures and installations can be found here.
We welcome you to join our pottery journey too, with our individual workshops, corporate sessions, or spiritual retreats.
Anyone tried this pose yet?
We`ve been slow in getting our son to become a full fledged Studio Asobi apprentice because we haven`t quite figured out how to nurture him in a way that will help him enjoy the work we do in the long term. So for now, we only try to teach him when he really asks for it! It`s not easy, though, to teach a child the electric wheel when he is still pretty short! So after a bit of trial and error, we co-created a posture that for now gives him maximum stability - one hand against the splash pan, one knee up like a coffeeshop uncle to support his other arm. Not sure if this is the most sophisticated way to pull a cup but it works!
There was a period, in the first few years of our marriage, when I balked at the idea of having a child. And a period, shortly after Tobie was born, when I just felt overwhelmed by the challenges of parenthood. Perhaps there will come a time when I will feel overwhelmed again, but for now it is just such a joy to go on this adventure of life together with Huiwen and Tobie. Ok most of the time - sometimes I just want to curl up and sleep and let Huiwen settle all the homework that hasn`t been done!
He`s our child, but he`s also not ours, in a sense. God has given us the privilege of accompanying him for hopefully a good part of his life before he takes on this world by himself. We`ve discussed a fair bit about what is important during this period, and of course nobody really knows the answer, but I do hope that he will grow up to know that God loves him, and that we love him. And that because of this, he too can love those around him with fullness of heart, calmness of mind, and his own unique pose!
Jan 20
Anyone tried this pose yet?
We`ve been slow in getting our son to become a full fledged Studio Asobi apprentice because we haven`t quite figured out how to nurture him in a way that will help him enjoy the work we do in the long term. So for now, we only try to teach him when he really asks for it! It`s not easy, though, to teach a child the electric wheel when he is still pretty short! So after a bit of trial and error, we co-created a posture that for now gives him maximum stability - one hand against the splash pan, one knee up like a coffeeshop uncle to support his other arm. Not sure if this is the most sophisticated way to pull a cup but it works!
There was a period, in the first few years of our marriage, when I balked at the idea of having a child. And a period, shortly after Tobie was born, when I just felt overwhelmed by the challenges of parenthood. Perhaps there will come a time when I will feel overwhelmed again, but for now it is just such a joy to go on this adventure of life together with Huiwen and Tobie. Ok most of the time - sometimes I just want to curl up and sleep and let Huiwen settle all the homework that hasn`t been done!
He`s our child, but he`s also not ours, in a sense. God has given us the privilege of accompanying him for hopefully a good part of his life before he takes on this world by himself. We`ve discussed a fair bit about what is important during this period, and of course nobody really knows the answer, but I do hope that he will grow up to know that God loves him, and that we love him. And that because of this, he too can love those around him with fullness of heart, calmness of mind, and his own unique pose!
This chip and dip bowl was made by two of our students (a couple) and they spent a really long time working on it, lovingly joining, trimming and glazing. But upon firing, we were bummed to find some really big cracks! These weren`t hairline cracks, they went through the entire wall of the vessel. But not to be defeated, we decided to take a risk and refire the piece. We grinded the thick glaze areas so they wouldn`t flow too much, and filled the cracked areas with glaze in the hope that the melted glaze would bind the cracks together. And it turned out great!
But during the rather arduous fixing process, in which our expensive rotary tool actually got fried due to an accident, I inevitably wondered, was this piece worth fixing? After all, there was no guarantee that it would be successful - in fact, the crack could get worse, the glaze could melt down onto the kiln shelf causing unnecessary damage, or new cracks could even appear due to the stress of repeated firing. But, driven by the force of curiosity, we decided that "what if it works?" was more compelling than "what if it doesn`t?"
Recently, we had a few conversations with friends who were at crossroads. A strained marriage. A new stressful season of family life. A health crisis. Estranged family members. Situations which need to be fixed, but yet the fixing process seems daunting, and the outcome is uncertain. Does one press ahead into the unknown? Or is it better to stay put in a familiar situation, however unpleasant it may be? I have no answers, but I do know that Studio Asobi was birthed upon the premise of "what if this works?" And that has made all the difference in our lives.
Jan 14
This chip and dip bowl was made by two of our students (a couple) and they spent a really long time working on it, lovingly joining, trimming and glazing. But upon firing, we were bummed to find some really big cracks! These weren`t hairline cracks, they went through the entire wall of the vessel. But not to be defeated, we decided to take a risk and refire the piece. We grinded the thick glaze areas so they wouldn`t flow too much, and filled the cracked areas with glaze in the hope that the melted glaze would bind the cracks together. And it turned out great!
But during the rather arduous fixing process, in which our expensive rotary tool actually got fried due to an accident, I inevitably wondered, was this piece worth fixing? After all, there was no guarantee that it would be successful - in fact, the crack could get worse, the glaze could melt down onto the kiln shelf causing unnecessary damage, or new cracks could even appear due to the stress of repeated firing. But, driven by the force of curiosity, we decided that "what if it works?" was more compelling than "what if it doesn`t?"
Recently, we had a few conversations with friends who were at crossroads. A strained marriage. A new stressful season of family life. A health crisis. Estranged family members. Situations which need to be fixed, but yet the fixing process seems daunting, and the outcome is uncertain. Does one press ahead into the unknown? Or is it better to stay put in a familiar situation, however unpleasant it may be? I have no answers, but I do know that Studio Asobi was birthed upon the premise of "what if this works?" And that has made all the difference in our lives.
医治 (Healing) has been a word on my mind over the past months as we worked on resolving a health challenge for a family member.
The "secrets" to a healthy life are actually not secrets at all because they are widely known and promoted. When practiced, we see the fruits by way of healthy seniors who remain mentally sharp, emotionally happy, physically fit, relationally supported and spiritually fulfilled.
It is not easy you may say, and that is true. Knowledge is empty except when they are put to practice. With many good goals in life, there are 1000 ways to deviate, leaving a narrow and straight path to reach the desired destination. Unmet new year resolutions are a classic example of how we desire to get rid of bad habits and to create new good habits but the flesh is weak and the self-control lacking.
Having said that, there are still many ways to stay on the narrow and straight path if we understand the root principles. It is a little like pottery, in the sense that there are many techniques to make the same cup and we have freedom to explore which techniques are more suited to our own temperaments and circumstances.
Because of our family members` health challenges over the years, we have gained some understanding of what works and what doesn`t work (and we are still trying to get more healthy ourselves too!).
Emotions play such a big part and this is known but still overlooked. Perhaps it needs to be explicitly stated in the prescription! E.g. laugh heartily for as many times a day, avoid being triggered with anger, let go of unforgiveness, and do not worry etc.
In this rainy season where skies are dark and gloomy, may we each find our piece of sunshine wherever we are. Look at the flowers of the field, look at the birds of the air, look at beauty in nature that refreshes our spirits and which teaches us about the cycles of life and death.
Each day is a gift of life and may we learn from the hearty laughs of children that wonder and joy can be found in the smallest of things. May God bless you and heal you in your area of need.
祝大家身体健康，身心宽敞！
Jan 13
医治 (Healing) has been a word on my mind over the past months as we worked on resolving a health challenge for a family member.
The "secrets" to a healthy life are actually not secrets at all because they are widely known and promoted. When practiced, we see the fruits by way of healthy seniors who remain mentally sharp, emotionally happy, physically fit, relationally supported and spiritually fulfilled.
It is not easy you may say, and that is true. Knowledge is empty except when they are put to practice. With many good goals in life, there are 1000 ways to deviate, leaving a narrow and straight path to reach the desired destination. Unmet new year resolutions are a classic example of how we desire to get rid of bad habits and to create new good habits but the flesh is weak and the self-control lacking.
Having said that, there are still many ways to stay on the narrow and straight path if we understand the root principles. It is a little like pottery, in the sense that there are many techniques to make the same cup and we have freedom to explore which techniques are more suited to our own temperaments and circumstances.
Because of our family members` health challenges over the years, we have gained some understanding of what works and what doesn`t work (and we are still trying to get more healthy ourselves too!).
Emotions play such a big part and this is known but still overlooked. Perhaps it needs to be explicitly stated in the prescription! E.g. laugh heartily for as many times a day, avoid being triggered with anger, let go of unforgiveness, and do not worry etc.
In this rainy season where skies are dark and gloomy, may we each find our piece of sunshine wherever we are. Look at the flowers of the field, look at the birds of the air, look at beauty in nature that refreshes our spirits and which teaches us about the cycles of life and death.
Each day is a gift of life and may we learn from the hearty laughs of children that wonder and joy can be found in the smallest of things. May God bless you and heal you in your area of need.
祝大家身体健康，身心宽敞！
Today, a student wanted to replicate a vase, so I decided to do a quick demo for her. First one actually collapsed, much to my embarrassment! But it was so refreshing to get back on the wheel again after the school holidays, and we had a great time practicing our observation of forms and figuring out how to copy a shape as accurately as possible without measuring tools. And at least the second attempt turned out well!
When I started making vessels, I would tell myself that every piece is unique, so I don`t have to try too hard to make things look the same. But I`ve since also discovered a joy in reproducing forms, the same way that I enjoyed copying pictures as a young child. There`s a satisfaction in seeing how a vessel gradually morphs into the right proportions with just a little touch here and there. And also a deeper satisfaction that after a decade of doing pottery as a full time job, I still enjoy the feel of clay in my hands!
Jan 4
Today, a student wanted to replicate a vase, so I decided to do a quick demo for her. First one actually collapsed, much to my embarrassment! But it was so refreshing to get back on the wheel again after the school holidays, and we had a great time practicing our observation of forms and figuring out how to copy a shape as accurately as possible without measuring tools. And at least the second attempt turned out well!
When I started making vessels, I would tell myself that every piece is unique, so I don`t have to try too hard to make things look the same. But I`ve since also discovered a joy in reproducing forms, the same way that I enjoyed copying pictures as a young child. There`s a satisfaction in seeing how a vessel gradually morphs into the right proportions with just a little touch here and there. And also a deeper satisfaction that after a decade of doing pottery as a full time job, I still enjoy the feel of clay in my hands!
Every time we go to the playground or beach, my hands itch to make something. This time, it`s a chubby sand man (ok maybe sand troll) carved from the sides of a giant trench created by my boy and two other kids (good practice for their future National Service!). Didn`t have time to refine him because of the looming rain, but it was still a valiant effort!
My index finger was also in pain for the next few days due to bruising from the frantic digging. But worth it! May we always discover beauty in the things around us, and may we always find the time to enjoy it!
Dec 22
Every time we go to the playground or beach, my hands itch to make something. This time, it`s a chubby sand man (ok maybe sand troll) carved from the sides of a giant trench created by my boy and two other kids (good practice for their future National Service!). Didn`t have time to refine him because of the looming rain, but it was still a valiant effort!
My index finger was also in pain for the next few days due to bruising from the frantic digging. But worth it! May we always discover beauty in the things around us, and may we always find the time to enjoy it!
Today we bid goodbye to our two kilns after almost 10 years. Over the past month, each of them malfunctioned in ways that would be too expensive to fix, and after some valiant attempts at troubleshooting, we decided that it was time to get a new one.
Looking back, I must say that these kilns have been, more than anything else, a testament of my parents` love for me. Although back then it was so hard for them to understand our decision to start our studio, they nevertheless gifted us our first kiln, without which we couldn`t have set up a home studio! And if not for our home studio which showed us a different way to live our lives, we would probably not have become parents ourselves!
This has given us an important lesson. As parents, we certainly have hopes for our son, and in many areas I`m sure he would choose paths that are different from what we hope for. Some may amaze us, some may disappoint us, some may worry us. Of course, we will try our best to point him in the direction we feel is right, but at the end of the day, I must still hold on to the wisdom of the Bible - "Fathers, do not exasperate your children". Wherever he goes, I want Tobie to know that we will always be behind him, supporting him and cheering him on. So that whenever he needs a word of comfort, or encouragement, or wisdom, there is always going to be a safe harbour to return to.
A whole decade has passed since our first kiln arrived. We are still doing what we do, still the same studio as before, but one that has walked a beautiful journey that hopefully is still in its infancy. Grateful to these two kilns for accompanying us along the way, and for the thousands of beautiful vessels that have emerged out of their crucible.
Dec 11
Today we bid goodbye to our two kilns after almost 10 years. Over the past month, each of them malfunctioned in ways that would be too expensive to fix, and after some valiant attempts at troubleshooting, we decided that it was time to get a new one.
Looking back, I must say that these kilns have been, more than anything else, a testament of my parents` love for me. Although back then it was so hard for them to understand our decision to start our studio, they nevertheless gifted us our first kiln, without which we couldn`t have set up a home studio! And if not for our home studio which showed us a different way to live our lives, we would probably not have become parents ourselves!
This has given us an important lesson. As parents, we certainly have hopes for our son, and in many areas I`m sure he would choose paths that are different from what we hope for. Some may amaze us, some may disappoint us, some may worry us. Of course, we will try our best to point him in the direction we feel is right, but at the end of the day, I must still hold on to the wisdom of the Bible - "Fathers, do not exasperate your children". Wherever he goes, I want Tobie to know that we will always be behind him, supporting him and cheering him on. So that whenever he needs a word of comfort, or encouragement, or wisdom, there is always going to be a safe harbour to return to.
A whole decade has passed since our first kiln arrived. We are still doing what we do, still the same studio as before, but one that has walked a beautiful journey that hopefully is still in its infancy. Grateful to these two kilns for accompanying us along the way, and for the thousands of beautiful vessels that have emerged out of their crucible.
How long does it take to mould a pot? It depends a lot on the complexity and your skill level:)
How long does it take to shape lives? Well, it certainly takes a whole lot longer!
For the last two months, we have been cycling to meet our 200km goal in our fundraising campaign for a local charity @bcaresg. They have been serving the community since 1996 through an extensive range of services to children, youths, seniors, families and persons with mental health conditions.
Today, we (Kenneth & Huiwen) just cleared our individual cycling target of 200km! As a bonus, Tobie also did his part with a total of 29km 🎉🎉🎉
The fundraising target for Bcare is only fulfilled halfway. If you have received much goodness in your life and would like to pay it forward and bless those in need, we would like to invite you to join in the good work by donating any amount you are comfortable with!
You can check out more details about the campaign (till end Nov) from the link in our profile above/comments section.
May God bless you as you bless others:)
#strideforgood #giving #volunteering #bcare #studiolife #shapinglives
Nov 15
How long does it take to mould a pot? It depends a lot on the complexity and your skill level:)
How long does it take to shape lives? Well, it certainly takes a whole lot longer!
For the last two months, we have been cycling to meet our 200km goal in our fundraising campaign for a local charity @bcaresg. They have been serving the community since 1996 through an extensive range of services to children, youths, seniors, families and persons with mental health conditions.
Today, we (Kenneth & Huiwen) just cleared our individual cycling target of 200km! As a bonus, Tobie also did his part with a total of 29km 🎉🎉🎉
The fundraising target for Bcare is only fulfilled halfway. If you have received much goodness in your life and would like to pay it forward and bless those in need, we would like to invite you to join in the good work by donating any amount you are comfortable with!
You can check out more details about the campaign (till end Nov) from the link in our profile above/comments section.
May God bless you as you bless others:)
#strideforgood #giving #volunteering #bcare #studiolife #shapinglives
MOVING
The wind rises and falls;
I glance back, yet look forward
I`m glad our paths crossed
There are 1001 ways to live out our lives. Do you find that the most impactful memories are likely to do with people?
Perhaps it was an author whose words were passed along through the ages. Perhaps it was someone who showed you kindness when you least expected it. Perhaps it was someone that inspired you to see the world from a fresh angle. Perhaps it was a mentor who showed you the ropes and made life more bearable.
As people leave their marks on our minds and hearts, we are shaped and moulded in that process. For better or worse. Are we happy with the likeness we are growing into? May the answer be so:)
#sakeset #handmade #pottery #ceramics #madeinsg #reflections #life #studioasobi
Nov 2
MOVING
The wind rises and falls;
I glance back, yet look forward
I`m glad our paths crossed
There are 1001 ways to live out our lives. Do you find that the most impactful memories are likely to do with people?
Perhaps it was an author whose words were passed along through the ages. Perhaps it was someone who showed you kindness when you least expected it. Perhaps it was someone that inspired you to see the world from a fresh angle. Perhaps it was a mentor who showed you the ropes and made life more bearable.
As people leave their marks on our minds and hearts, we are shaped and moulded in that process. For better or worse. Are we happy with the likeness we are growing into? May the answer be so:)
#sakeset #handmade #pottery #ceramics #madeinsg #reflections #life #studioasobi
We are big fans of @nlbsingapore and library@orchard easily ranks as one of the most iconic branches with its design and art focus for their collection of books.
This branch will be closed temporarily from 28 Oct 24 as part of NLB`s ongoing efforts to rejuvenate its libraries and to offer fresh services, spaces, and experiences for patrons.
Currently there is a small exhibition there till 27 Oct featuring the works of past Pro Series speakers. If you are in the area, you can look out for our nerikomi bud vases right near the entrance:)
Thanks again to @nlbsingapore for this opportunity and for constantly bringing so many wonderful books to children and adults alike. Our son is a big fan too and we all love the innovative Book Bugs initiative! Thanks for continuing to build up the love for books in Singapore.
#libraries #books #lovebooks #ceramics #pottery #clay #studioasobi #studiolife #singapore
Oct 24
We are big fans of @nlbsingapore and library@orchard easily ranks as one of the most iconic branches with its design and art focus for their collection of books.
This branch will be closed temporarily from 28 Oct 24 as part of NLB`s ongoing efforts to rejuvenate its libraries and to offer fresh services, spaces, and experiences for patrons.
Currently there is a small exhibition there till 27 Oct featuring the works of past Pro Series speakers. If you are in the area, you can look out for our nerikomi bud vases right near the entrance:)
Thanks again to @nlbsingapore for this opportunity and for constantly bringing so many wonderful books to children and adults alike. Our son is a big fan too and we all love the innovative Book Bugs initiative! Thanks for continuing to build up the love for books in Singapore.
#libraries #books #lovebooks #ceramics #pottery #clay #studioasobi #studiolife #singapore
We are so thankful for your precious and generous support of our recent seconds sale at @rogerandsons which raised a total of $768 that will fully go into our ground-up fund to plug urgent gaps in funding for cases referred by @healthservesg.
From 2019-2024, this fund (supported by a network of friends and family and now you too) has helped 45 individual migrant brothers for needs ranging from S$50 to a few hundred.
You see, we do not have to pay a big amount of money to secure our jobs here in Singapore. We are extremely fortunate to have this privilege! Recruitment agent fees charge Bangladeshi workers typically S$13-16,000 for their first job in Singapore. Imagine paying this amount just to have a chance at a better life for your family. This typically results in hefty loans with hefty interest rates and if all things go well, they can start saving up a little once the loans are paid off.
However, if you become injured and cannot work, your woes and nightmares start to pile up. Your family would not only struggle to eat as you are the main income bringer but they can get harassed by creditors. While trying to get your work injury compensation amidst disputes with employers or assessment processes, you need to wait and is stuck in limbo. It is an extremely stressful situation that many workers face and thankfully we have organisations like Healthserve who help them (please support their work!).
We do not have the means to help everyone nor to help them completely but we can each choose to contribute a little in building a better and kinder society for everyone`s benefit. It can start as simply as smiling and being nice to the migrant workers who come into your path and being nice to your colleagues and fellow neighbours. Little by little, we choose grace instead of animosity.
Thank you all once again! We are so encouraged:)
#migrants #healthserve #culturecare #giving #grace #bettercommunity #studiolife
Oct 2
We are so thankful for your precious and generous support of our recent seconds sale at @rogerandsons which raised a total of $768 that will fully go into our ground-up fund to plug urgent gaps in funding for cases referred by @healthservesg.
From 2019-2024, this fund (supported by a network of friends and family and now you too) has helped 45 individual migrant brothers for needs ranging from S$50 to a few hundred.
You see, we do not have to pay a big amount of money to secure our jobs here in Singapore. We are extremely fortunate to have this privilege! Recruitment agent fees charge Bangladeshi workers typically S$13-16,000 for their first job in Singapore. Imagine paying this amount just to have a chance at a better life for your family. This typically results in hefty loans with hefty interest rates and if all things go well, they can start saving up a little once the loans are paid off.
However, if you become injured and cannot work, your woes and nightmares start to pile up. Your family would not only struggle to eat as you are the main income bringer but they can get harassed by creditors. While trying to get your work injury compensation amidst disputes with employers or assessment processes, you need to wait and is stuck in limbo. It is an extremely stressful situation that many workers face and thankfully we have organisations like Healthserve who help them (please support their work!).
We do not have the means to help everyone nor to help them completely but we can each choose to contribute a little in building a better and kinder society for everyone`s benefit. It can start as simply as smiling and being nice to the migrant workers who come into your path and being nice to your colleagues and fellow neighbours. Little by little, we choose grace instead of animosity.
Thank you all once again! We are so encouraged:)
#migrants #healthserve #culturecare #giving #grace #bettercommunity #studiolife
Mondays are our rest days and we have benefitted much over the years from observing a rhythm of having a day per week where we cease from thinking about and doing work. We pursue rest and exploration and community during this day and yesterday we combined all 3 elements as we cycled 18km to meet our individual 200km goal in our fundraising campaign for a local charity @bcaresg.
Stride for Good 2024 aims to raise funds to impact lives through providing assistance to vulnerable groups such as:
1. Children from low-income families
2. Persons with mental health conditions
3. Seniors who are frail or isolated
We have been volunteering with BCare over the past year; in their Milk and Diapers assistance programme that helps families referred by social agencies. The practical help goes a long way to enable these services to continue and to expand for beneficiaries. Therefore we would like to invite you to join in the good work by donating any amount you are comfortable with!
You can check out more details about the campaign (till end Nov) from the link in our profile above/comments section.
May God bless you as you bless others:)
P.S. Pictures are from Japanese Cemetery Park and the residential blocks are Kenneth`s project while he was still an architect!
#strideforgood #giving #volunteering #bcare #studiolife #sabbathrest
Sep 30
Mondays are our rest days and we have benefitted much over the years from observing a rhythm of having a day per week where we cease from thinking about and doing work. We pursue rest and exploration and community during this day and yesterday we combined all 3 elements as we cycled 18km to meet our individual 200km goal in our fundraising campaign for a local charity @bcaresg.
Stride for Good 2024 aims to raise funds to impact lives through providing assistance to vulnerable groups such as:
1. Children from low-income families
2. Persons with mental health conditions
3. Seniors who are frail or isolated
We have been volunteering with BCare over the past year; in their Milk and Diapers assistance programme that helps families referred by social agencies. The practical help goes a long way to enable these services to continue and to expand for beneficiaries. Therefore we would like to invite you to join in the good work by donating any amount you are comfortable with!
You can check out more details about the campaign (till end Nov) from the link in our profile above/comments section.
May God bless you as you bless others:)
P.S. Pictures are from Japanese Cemetery Park and the residential blocks are Kenneth`s project while he was still an architect!
#strideforgood #giving #volunteering #bcare #studiolife #sabbathrest
Just a simple bowl we made some time ago - loved the colour but just didn`t know what to do with it so it was just sitting on our shelf for years! Really thankful to @rogerandsons for inviting us to their Offcuts & Rejects sale, so that this bowl and many of our other "seconds" could be seen by others! We drilled a hole into this bowl so that it can serve as a flower pot, and I can now proudly say that I know how to drill into ceramic!
Thank you also to the new friend who bought this and promptly placed a Big Foot plant in it for her grandpa! Such a beautiful picture for us as potters, to see our creation being repurposed and given a new lease of life!
This little experience also reminded me of our Master Potter, who takes the offcuts and rejects and seconds of this world, and makes us His own. Loving us and purposing us for His glory. After all, He is the one who made us, and we are His masterpieces even if we have been told otherwise along the way!
Sep 24
Just a simple bowl we made some time ago - loved the colour but just didn`t know what to do with it so it was just sitting on our shelf for years! Really thankful to @rogerandsons for inviting us to their Offcuts & Rejects sale, so that this bowl and many of our other "seconds" could be seen by others! We drilled a hole into this bowl so that it can serve as a flower pot, and I can now proudly say that I know how to drill into ceramic!
Thank you also to the new friend who bought this and promptly placed a Big Foot plant in it for her grandpa! Such a beautiful picture for us as potters, to see our creation being repurposed and given a new lease of life!
This little experience also reminded me of our Master Potter, who takes the offcuts and rejects and seconds of this world, and makes us His own. Loving us and purposing us for His glory. After all, He is the one who made us, and we are His masterpieces even if we have been told otherwise along the way!
All set up at @rogerandsons for the sale event happening from tomorrow (21/9) till 28/9! We have selected a range of re-purposed pots (to grow greens in) and "pot-otypes" for you to take home at exclusive marked down prices:)
All proceeds are pledged towards our ground-up Hand in Hand fund, a collaboration with @healthservesg to help injured migrant workers, so you are also more than welcome to give more than the set prices! Just reference "hands" in the transfer field and/or DM us to find out more about this initiative:)
Have fun browsing through the other things on offer during the event too! We won`t be manning the booth as we have classes and retreats to run. If you are keen to try out pottery or a spiritual retreat, you can check out our website for more details.
Have a great weekend ahead, folks!
#pottery #potterysale #sustainability #repurposing #clay
Sep 20
All set up at @rogerandsons for the sale event happening from tomorrow (21/9) till 28/9! We have selected a range of re-purposed pots (to grow greens in) and "pot-otypes" for you to take home at exclusive marked down prices:)
All proceeds are pledged towards our ground-up Hand in Hand fund, a collaboration with @healthservesg to help injured migrant workers, so you are also more than welcome to give more than the set prices! Just reference "hands" in the transfer field and/or DM us to find out more about this initiative:)
Have fun browsing through the other things on offer during the event too! We won`t be manning the booth as we have classes and retreats to run. If you are keen to try out pottery or a spiritual retreat, you can check out our website for more details.
Have a great weekend ahead, folks!
#pottery #potterysale #sustainability #repurposing #clay
Our friends over at @rogerandsons have always been promoting sustainability and creativity and they are hosting an Offcut & Rejects sale for their wood related items! They have called along some other friends to join them so here we are:)
We have selected over 20 pottery items for this event and all proceeds from the sale of these pottery goes to our Hand in Hand Fund to aid injured migrant workers in need of urgent financial help.
115 King George Avenue | 12 PM - 7 PM | September 21st-28th
To reduce waste, do bring along your own bags!:)
#sustainability #repurposing #reducewaste
Sep 19
Our friends over at @rogerandsons have always been promoting sustainability and creativity and they are hosting an Offcut & Rejects sale for their wood related items! They have called along some other friends to join them so here we are:)
We have selected over 20 pottery items for this event and all proceeds from the sale of these pottery goes to our Hand in Hand Fund to aid injured migrant workers in need of urgent financial help.
115 King George Avenue | 12 PM - 7 PM | September 21st-28th
To reduce waste, do bring along your own bags!:)
#sustainability #repurposing #reducewaste
We celebrate 10 years as Studio Asobi!
We give thanks to God for loving us as our Good Good Father, and moulding us as our Master Potter.
We give thanks to each of you for being part of our growth and journey.
Thank you for choosing to send encouragement along our way by liking our works and making them part of your homes.
Thank you for coming for our workshops, classes and retreats, and becoming friends in the process.
Thank you for reading our posts and sharing with us when it resonated with you so that social media becomes meaningful.
Thank you for supporting our initiatives for the various needy groups in Singapore, so that help is multiplied.
Special thanks also goes to our precious family for your tremendous love and support! We could not have started and sustained this endeavour without your love, encouragement, generosity, and co-laboring!
Thank you to all the art and pottery teachers that have taught us too! Thank you for imparting your skills and knowledge to us:)
十年 - 我们心满意足！
#thanksgiving #studiolife #anniversary #pottery #ceramics #studioasobi
Sep 18
We celebrate 10 years as Studio Asobi!
We give thanks to God for loving us as our Good Good Father, and moulding us as our Master Potter.
We give thanks to each of you for being part of our growth and journey.
Thank you for choosing to send encouragement along our way by liking our works and making them part of your homes.
Thank you for coming for our workshops, classes and retreats, and becoming friends in the process.
Thank you for reading our posts and sharing with us when it resonated with you so that social media becomes meaningful.
Thank you for supporting our initiatives for the various needy groups in Singapore, so that help is multiplied.
Special thanks also goes to our precious family for your tremendous love and support! We could not have started and sustained this endeavour without your love, encouragement, generosity, and co-laboring!
Thank you to all the art and pottery teachers that have taught us too! Thank you for imparting your skills and knowledge to us:)
十年 - 我们心满意足！
#thanksgiving #studiolife #anniversary #pottery #ceramics #studioasobi
SECRET FOREST
Hidden aromas
A lone leaf, tenderly wrapped
Savour when ready
When I think about this cup, I`m reminded of the many impromptu, on-demand stories we have told our son over the course of these 6 years, many of which revolve around the adventures of mysterious animals with special powers living in a Secret Forest. We tell him stories to get him to sleep, get him to wake up, get him to revise spelling, distract him from pain, among others. Telling these stories also takes us, the story tellers, on little adventures with our boy, through a world that we had once left behind as we entered adulthood.
Once in a while, making a vessel like this also takes us on a little adventure. Into a world where strange things are possible, like drinking the refreshing morning dew from a long, slender leaf wrapped around itself.
I`m blessed to have the time to sit there and slowly carve away, letting my mind drift and wander. I wish the door to the Secret Forest will always be open for me.
Sep 6
SECRET FOREST
Hidden aromas
A lone leaf, tenderly wrapped
Savour when ready
When I think about this cup, I`m reminded of the many impromptu, on-demand stories we have told our son over the course of these 6 years, many of which revolve around the adventures of mysterious animals with special powers living in a Secret Forest. We tell him stories to get him to sleep, get him to wake up, get him to revise spelling, distract him from pain, among others. Telling these stories also takes us, the story tellers, on little adventures with our boy, through a world that we had once left behind as we entered adulthood.
Once in a while, making a vessel like this also takes us on a little adventure. Into a world where strange things are possible, like drinking the refreshing morning dew from a long, slender leaf wrapped around itself.
I`m blessed to have the time to sit there and slowly carve away, letting my mind drift and wander. I wish the door to the Secret Forest will always be open for me.
We just concluded a week of retreats and it was so wonderful to have different groups come to find rest, enjoyment and nourishment together!
Pre-covid, we were running monthly pottery sessions for injured migrant brothers who come to @healthservesg, and we are glad that we managed to resume these sessions now on a more intimate scale.
Some of them have been stuck in limbo for more than a year; unable to work due to their injury and case compensation issues, and they spend each day just waiting in their dorms. Their dorms are also situated in remote parts of Singapore and it is expensive to get around; hence they don`t get out much.
We are glad that Healthserve reaches out to help these brothers and special thanks to Daniel, who would take the trouble to drive them here for some therapeutic fun with clay. It was rewarding to see how their faces lit up with smiles as they focused on their making and they are all so good with their hands!
It was also very nice to see previous participants return and thank you @agapians for bringing your youth ministry leaders this time round. It was a joy and delight to have deep conversations together as we delved into the practical aspects of the analogy of Potter and Clay. Same goes for the individuals who came for our Potter`s House spiritual retreat session!
Our hearts are full and we would like to take the chance to wish all teachers a blessed teacher`s day! Thanks for sowing into the hearts and minds of others:)
#retreat #spiritualretreat #migrants #clay #pottery
Aug 29
We just concluded a week of retreats and it was so wonderful to have different groups come to find rest, enjoyment and nourishment together!
Pre-covid, we were running monthly pottery sessions for injured migrant brothers who come to @healthservesg, and we are glad that we managed to resume these sessions now on a more intimate scale.
Some of them have been stuck in limbo for more than a year; unable to work due to their injury and case compensation issues, and they spend each day just waiting in their dorms. Their dorms are also situated in remote parts of Singapore and it is expensive to get around; hence they don`t get out much.
We are glad that Healthserve reaches out to help these brothers and special thanks to Daniel, who would take the trouble to drive them here for some therapeutic fun with clay. It was rewarding to see how their faces lit up with smiles as they focused on their making and they are all so good with their hands!
It was also very nice to see previous participants return and thank you @agapians for bringing your youth ministry leaders this time round. It was a joy and delight to have deep conversations together as we delved into the practical aspects of the analogy of Potter and Clay. Same goes for the individuals who came for our Potter`s House spiritual retreat session!
Our hearts are full and we would like to take the chance to wish all teachers a blessed teacher`s day! Thanks for sowing into the hearts and minds of others:)
#retreat #spiritualretreat #migrants #clay #pottery
Took us a long time to do this post because we didn`t want to have any spoilers, but our bricks project surely would not have been possible without the kind and generous help from Kiwi of @lionsforge_sg .
We needed to create a press mould for our artwork but we didn`t know how to go about doing it. Lasercut? CNC? Silicone mould? We approached several companies but received little help, perhaps because of the small quantity and relative complexity. Getting more and more anxious, we finally stumbled upon Lionsforge, and I was quite amazed just reading all their excellent online reviews.
I gave Kiwi a call, and found out that although Lionsforge is primarily a manufacturer of (excellent) laser cutting machines, they enthusiastically lend their expertise and support to artists and students who need help with laser cutting resources. Kiwi patiently explained to me the key aspects of laser cutting, and most importantly he was so positive about helping us find a solution, inviting us to his workshop to have a chat so that we can figure it out together.
At his workshop, he brainstormed ideas with us, and even when we suggested things that may or may not work, his response was always, "Let`s try it and see how." Without even mentioning anything about costs, he tested several iterations of the mould for us, and finally arrived at a solution that worked perfectly. Although he cut several small moulds for us as back up, they were so durable that we only needed to change one mould throughout the 1,700 bricks we made, and only because a tiny detail got chipped away by my careless handling.
So thankful for the kindness he showed us, and so impressed by his desire to empower fellow Singaporeans using the amazing machines that Lionsforge has developed. If you need any help with laser cutting, or if you are looking to get a very efficient and safe machine for your own use, please look for Lionsforge!
Aug 21
Took us a long time to do this post because we didn`t want to have any spoilers, but our bricks project surely would not have been possible without the kind and generous help from Kiwi of @lionsforge_sg .
We needed to create a press mould for our artwork but we didn`t know how to go about doing it. Lasercut? CNC? Silicone mould? We approached several companies but received little help, perhaps because of the small quantity and relative complexity. Getting more and more anxious, we finally stumbled upon Lionsforge, and I was quite amazed just reading all their excellent online reviews.
I gave Kiwi a call, and found out that although Lionsforge is primarily a manufacturer of (excellent) laser cutting machines, they enthusiastically lend their expertise and support to artists and students who need help with laser cutting resources. Kiwi patiently explained to me the key aspects of laser cutting, and most importantly he was so positive about helping us find a solution, inviting us to his workshop to have a chat so that we can figure it out together.
At his workshop, he brainstormed ideas with us, and even when we suggested things that may or may not work, his response was always, "Let`s try it and see how." Without even mentioning anything about costs, he tested several iterations of the mould for us, and finally arrived at a solution that worked perfectly. Although he cut several small moulds for us as back up, they were so durable that we only needed to change one mould throughout the 1,700 bricks we made, and only because a tiny detail got chipped away by my careless handling.
So thankful for the kindness he showed us, and so impressed by his desire to empower fellow Singaporeans using the amazing machines that Lionsforge has developed. If you need any help with laser cutting, or if you are looking to get a very efficient and safe machine for your own use, please look for Lionsforge!
Working with clay requires patience because there is a lot of waiting involved at each stage of the process. Different processes are best done at different levels of clay hardness and an important but often understated step is the drying out of the clay.
If they are not dried properly, the bricks can suffer from cracks or warping. If they are not dried sufficiently, they can also explode in the kiln. In our fast paced society where we want and anticipate things to move at our desired speed, waiting can feel unproductive and frustrating. Are we willing to wait, no matter how long it takes?
"I wait for the Lord, my soul waits, and in his word I hope; my soul waits for the Lord more than watchmen for the morning, more than watchmen for the morning." - Psalm 130:5-6
Without going through the baptism of fire, clay will always remain as clay. Many things are destroyed by fire; but clay is strengthened and transformed through fire. Its nature changes irrevocably through the fire and then fired clay lasts forever thereafter. Waiting and being tested in fiery trials can be an uncomfortable time for many in our spiritual journeys. Yet, it is also an unmissable step in the process. Do we trust in God to bring us through the fire?
"Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice insofar as you share Christ`s sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed." - 1 Peter 4:12-13
To be continued in Part 3!
#reflections #pottery #clay #studiolife #culturecare #lsbcjubilee
Aug 21
Working with clay requires patience because there is a lot of waiting involved at each stage of the process. Different processes are best done at different levels of clay hardness and an important but often understated step is the drying out of the clay.
If they are not dried properly, the bricks can suffer from cracks or warping. If they are not dried sufficiently, they can also explode in the kiln. In our fast paced society where we want and anticipate things to move at our desired speed, waiting can feel unproductive and frustrating. Are we willing to wait, no matter how long it takes?
"I wait for the Lord, my soul waits, and in his word I hope; my soul waits for the Lord more than watchmen for the morning, more than watchmen for the morning." - Psalm 130:5-6
Without going through the baptism of fire, clay will always remain as clay. Many things are destroyed by fire; but clay is strengthened and transformed through fire. Its nature changes irrevocably through the fire and then fired clay lasts forever thereafter. Waiting and being tested in fiery trials can be an uncomfortable time for many in our spiritual journeys. Yet, it is also an unmissable step in the process. Do we trust in God to bring us through the fire?
"Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice insofar as you share Christ`s sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed." - 1 Peter 4:12-13
To be continued in Part 3!
#reflections #pottery #clay #studiolife #culturecare #lsbcjubilee
Over the past 2 months, we were working on a unique project where we produced these cute little commemorative bricks for our church @lsbcsingapore :)
Don`t they look like delicious dark chocolate blocks? Or maybe that is just the chocolate lover talking! :D
We typically do not take on large scale production projects. All 1,700 pieces individually handcrafted, the two of us were like a mini factory line going back and forth on the multi-step making process. It also gave rise to many opportunities for us to have conversations and to reflect on the parallels with our spiritual journeys.
Clay comes from the ground and by itself is not worth much - but its value comes from being chosen and remade into something by the Potter`s hands.
Before the clay is suitable to be used, it needs to be cleaned up and wedged into the right consistency for the Potter`s work. Too little water, and the clay is too hard and stiff to be worked on. Too much water, and the clay becomes too muddy to hold its shape. The right level of pliability is a necessary step before embarking on the task at hand. Are we as clay, ready to submit to the moulding of the Potter?
There are different ways to mould the clay and for these bricks we have chosen to roll out the clay into slabs so that we can press the mould and imprint the design consistently. We needed to be clear about the dimensions and the desired outcome and to resist the natural pushback of the clay as we press and mould them in place.
In life, we may also sometimes push back on what God is showing us because it is uncomfortable. Or if we are not careful, we can also easily be moulded into the world`s image as societal pressures exert their enormous influence on us. Whose image do we reflect?
As we remove the mould, we check for consistency and clarity in imprinting, and we try to smooth out any rough edges. However, there will inevitably be bits and pieces of clay that may stick out which needs to be dealt with after the clay has hardened sufficiently for trimming. Are we aware of the patterns of behavior that may be hurtful or triggering to others?
So much to think about! To be continued in Part 2:)
#lsbcjubilee
Aug 19
Over the past 2 months, we were working on a unique project where we produced these cute little commemorative bricks for our church @lsbcsingapore :)
Don`t they look like delicious dark chocolate blocks? Or maybe that is just the chocolate lover talking! :D
We typically do not take on large scale production projects. All 1,700 pieces individually handcrafted, the two of us were like a mini factory line going back and forth on the multi-step making process. It also gave rise to many opportunities for us to have conversations and to reflect on the parallels with our spiritual journeys.
Clay comes from the ground and by itself is not worth much - but its value comes from being chosen and remade into something by the Potter`s hands.
Before the clay is suitable to be used, it needs to be cleaned up and wedged into the right consistency for the Potter`s work. Too little water, and the clay is too hard and stiff to be worked on. Too much water, and the clay becomes too muddy to hold its shape. The right level of pliability is a necessary step before embarking on the task at hand. Are we as clay, ready to submit to the moulding of the Potter?
There are different ways to mould the clay and for these bricks we have chosen to roll out the clay into slabs so that we can press the mould and imprint the design consistently. We needed to be clear about the dimensions and the desired outcome and to resist the natural pushback of the clay as we press and mould them in place.
In life, we may also sometimes push back on what God is showing us because it is uncomfortable. Or if we are not careful, we can also easily be moulded into the world`s image as societal pressures exert their enormous influence on us. Whose image do we reflect?
As we remove the mould, we check for consistency and clarity in imprinting, and we try to smooth out any rough edges. However, there will inevitably be bits and pieces of clay that may stick out which needs to be dealt with after the clay has hardened sufficiently for trimming. Are we aware of the patterns of behavior that may be hurtful or triggering to others?
So much to think about! To be continued in Part 2:)
#lsbcjubilee