The first time my hands touched clay, I created something from it. It dates back to my childhood, around six or seven. Those were the days of warm, exhilarating summers spent in a quaint village in the northeastern countryside of Tehran. The town was home to an old, charming house that belonged to my maternal grandfather. Nestled in the heart of untouched nature, we would spend our days exploring, playing, and embarking on little adventures. There, I would play for hours by a narrow, tranquil river that whispered as it flowed.

One day, as I was lost in my play world, I noticed the soft, fresh clay gathered by the riverbank. Without hesitation, I scooped some up and carefully began crafting tiny bowls and plates for my toys. I placed them in the warm sunlight to dry, feeling like these small creations had taken on a particular form. The experience brought me immense joy and a sense of triumph.

As time passed and I grew older, I pursued my studies in accounting at university. Amidst the academic pressures and assignments, I occasionally found solace in painting or playing the Setar, a musical tradition passed down to me by my father. These artistic moments provided me with much-needed peace and comfort alongside my studies.

Later in life, after getting married, I became the proud mother of two children, a son and a daughter. They are my pride and joy, and I cherish every moment with them.

In 2013, we decided to migrate to Adelaide, Australia. This move marked the beginning of a new chapter in an unfamiliar land. Adjusting to a new culture and learning a second language were among my challenges, but these experiences proved incredibly valuable and enriching.

In 2022, after many years, I decided to return to the world of clay. The art of pottery, which had lingered in my mind from the past, called me once more. I eagerly enrolled in two semesters of pottery classes, where I rediscovered the deep satisfaction this craft brought me. In the quiet moments when I'm not working at the nursing home, I find a unique sense of tranquillity and joy in shaping clay with my hands.