In the course of this experimentation, I kept finding myself called back to my own art. I had an affinity for ceramics that I never had for painting. I decided to use my accumulated wealth of unusual skills and equipment, and see if something new could issue from my own hands. Any artist who is looking for an instant reward isn't very realistic. I have a very healthy ego, which has taken quite a beating.
Persistence is almost more important than talent.
I made a brief foray into tile manufacture. I found all my time consumed with employees, bookkeeping and people wanting me to match glazes to their sofa cushions. It was obvious that this couldn't be the kind of fine art that I needed it to be. My energies were not being properly used. I had been aware of iridescent glassware, such as Tiffany, Loetz and Steuben, for many years.