A Potter’s Tradition: Charlie Parker Molds His Apprentice By Abby Baker
ABBY BAKER
“If it feels good, then you’re done,” Parker said on his secret to success. “There’s no formula to it.”
An unlikely pair, Charlie Parker, 68, and Kayla Harbeitner, 29, maneuver through bowls and mugs in various states of finish. It’s the Charlie Parker Pottery Studio, yet it’s Harbeitner, Parker’s artist in residence, who leads classes and adds the finishing touches to the planters that line the dusty workbench. “This is it – this is what I strived for for the last 50 years,” Parker said. “So I’ve taken someone in to teach, and
quite frankly become a better potter than me, and she will eventually continue my work.” That someone is Harbeitner, a millenial with a degree in computer animation from the Ringling College of Art and Design in Sarasota. She didn’t think she’d end up here, but three years in, she’s continuing in Parker’s footsteps. “What the goal is for any artist is to make a living doing what they love,” Parker said. “I want her to do more
than make a living – I want her to make a living while becoming a wellknown artist.” The Beginning of a Legacy It was 1967, and 14-year-old Parker was living in the Midwest when he joined his best friend’s uncle’s business, the Minnesota Clay Company. It started as weekend work to make money, but Parker never stopped
VOTE Dr. Mike Bauer for City Council
VOTE BY MAIL
Ballots have been sent – have you cast your vote for a better future and Dr. Mike?
Loves baseball and dogs Hates bigotr y and small minds Loves trees Hates trash Loves smart planning, inclusive community, and Gulfport, Florida!
www.DrMikeBauer.com Political advertisement paid for and approved by Michael R. Bauer for Gulfport City Council Ward 2
26
One of a Kind Designs, Home Furnishings. Jewelry, Art & More 6801 Gulfport Blvd S., Ste 8 727-827-7244
theGabber.com | February 4, 2021 - February 10, 2021
