There are no shortcuts, it comes with practice and observing and reflecting. At first we may make work that looks like other people’s work. This is normal and important. We are repeating, to gain stability and fluency. We must be able to see what is before we can develop beyond it. As we make more and more, our preferences begin to emerge. We prefer to trim a rim this way, and glaze a surface that way.
Our personal voice can best be heard when technique is no longer at the forefront. When our hands know what to do we can begin to hear the decisions we make. At first they will be subtle. Perhaps we like wider bases, or more generous handles. Or perhaps we like simplicity, the elimination of handles. We don’t ask how can I make this different, we ask how can I make this authentic. Authenticity comes from matching intent with ability. From making things that feel complete, rather than contrived.
When we look at our finished work, both successes and failures, we can begin to see patterns emerge that were not evident while making. We may find that certain forms feel very natural to us, and others do not, even when executed successfully. We must pay attention to these feelings. Our personal voice is not about trying to make things different. It is about recognizing what we value, and repeating it.
Looking at historical and contemporary work, at work from other cultures, can influence our personal voice, but not in an immediately apparent way. It can give us a frame of reference, a way to judge our preferences. As we look we begin to recognize how we can incorporate the inspiration of others into our work.
It takes time and patience. We must trust that our voice will emerge. It cannot be rushed, it cannot be planned out in a vacuum. Each piece we make is a part of the ongoing dialogue between medium and technique and intent. As we gain confidence our voice grows quieter. It is no longer necessary to shout. It is sufficient to speak clearly, and this clarity is a good measure of whether or not we have found our personal voice.