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**The Announcer** · #1 (**permalink**) 06-16-2023, 11:04 PM

Open the Golden Gates and seize the clay!

The Atrium, usually filled with flashes of floo powder and witches and wizards on their way to or from work, has been filled with clay and paint. Precautions have been taken to avoid unnecessary mess in the Ministry, using a combination of the Impervious Charm and more obvious cloth coverings. A variety of aprons are also available, should any Ministry employee be especially concerned about getting their clothes messy (or just want the extra big pocket).

Cloth covered tables of premade small clay sculptures, with prefilled paint palettes for decorating them, sit near the Fountain of Magical Brethren. On the opposite side, rows of seats for sculpting clay are arranged in concentric rings. The floor under the clay sculpting area is covered in a thick, multicolored canvas, with small automatically refilling hand wash stations interspersed among the tables.

Take your pick of sculpting, painting, or both. Whichever you choose, the pair of magical kilns set up next to the fireplaces will be ready when your sculpture is. Not sure where to start? Ask any department head - the whole leadership team has had at least one sculpting lesson in preparation for this team bonding event. After all, all work and no clay won't get you a nifty hand painted by yourself paper weight and mug cup!

FearlessLeader19 · 06-17-2023, 04:33 PM

A new year officially meant that Lucas Riley Hawthorne was celebrating his twenty-third year at the Ministry. It was quite a feat if you asked him, though he was well aware there were others that served the Ministry much longer. But this was his victory, no matter how small and celebrate it he would. Naturally, Lucas would start off taking part in this fabulous event the Department Head team had put together. Was the Games and Sports employee good at sculpting? Not at all. Merlin, he wasn’t even passable!

Lucas was just ready to get his hands dirty!

Firstly though…

Where did he start? Lucas could clearly see the designated sculpting area but how exactly did one get the clay going and how exactly did one shape it?

Chelliephone · 06-17-2023, 11:28 PM

Truth be told, Evan had not thought his chances of acquiring a job at the Ministry of Magic had been good. He'd applied for the sake of it, hoping that by some chance there'd been something entry level he would fit for and could do whilst attending school. He'd hoped maybe he could find something he liked to do, or at the very least earn enough coin to move out from his parents home. Things were better with Alexander Nam than they used to be, but he still wouldn't say that he was entirely comfortable around Appa the way that he'd been as a child given their strain after the Third Wizarding War.

So imagine his surprise when he had been offered a position. He'd hastily accepted it, sending in all the necessary paperwork as soon as possible, and before he knew it, it was time to start. He hadn't really been expecting the nerves that would come with his first 'grown up' job either, and yet there they were. So at the invitation for a bonding/ice breaker event to get messy and artistic... he'd been all too happy to put it on his calendar to check out.

Meandering down to the Atrium, hands in his pockets, Evan took a look around the room. He was not an expert with clay but based on what he'd seen in muggle videos he'd watched prior to today, he felt at least confident he knew which places he'd need to go to first. But before he could start with grabbing himself some clay and one of those spinning things to sit at, he'd need to locate aprons he could see on at least one of the Heads currently present. He wasn't particularly hoping to wear clay the rest of his work day once they'd completed this exercise.

Even with now starting her third year working at the British Ministry of Magic, it surprised Sook how much she'd come to enjoy her job and current place of employment with each year - far more than she had in Russia. There hadn't been anything particularly bad at the last location, but this team seemed far more committed to Department Head level bonding and truly being a cohesive management team as compared to being entirely alone when it came to their own department and work loads. It was... refreshing and she truly held great admiration for Charles for making it so.

So much admiration, that she even had been able to bypass being upset by the idea of working in clay for hours on end between their prior lessons and today's events. True, she should have liked clay given how much she'd loved working in dirt all her life. But most dirt came out of clothes fairly easily. Clay, however, did not.

But she'd endure it for the sake of her team. And she'd already pasted a smile on her face as she buried her hands deep in the large pocket on the front of her apron while watching and waiting for everyone to join them. She caught sight of a newer looking employee, but he wasn't looking quite as lost as Mr. Hawthorne so she left him for the time being and instead made her way to the Games and Sports employee. "Hello, Mr. Hawthorne. Pleasure to see you! Are you here to join us in crafting?" And how could she best assist him?

*Holmesian Feline* · 06-18-2023, 12:15 AM

As much as he enjoyed his time with his family over the holidays, a far cry from begging to be back to work when he was single, Simon still enjoyed the moment the ministry reopened in the new year. Granted one had to deal with whatever orientation like event with whatever team building activity the leadership threw at them first and foremost, but the security head had long since learned to grin and bear it. For the most part anyway. He was still not sure about the artsy craftsy clay and paint working idea they had this year.

But here he was.

Could he get away with going all watchful -eye-on-the-perimeter of things?

Possibly, until the point in time a certain minister made his appearance and pulled him into his idea of fun. Especially if he felt Simon was keeping himself out of things on purpose. So if anyone asked, he was looking it over trying to decide just where to begin rather than just jumping into rather messy matters. Ah but perhaps he could be helpful instead…the MLEr moving slowly closer to the young man who he knew as new. “Good day,” he greeted with a polite smile.

AlwaysSnapesGirl · 06-18-2023, 07:12 PM

To be quite honest, Ben was not excited about this event. Granted, there was often a little dread when it came to big social events like this. Not as much as when he was younger, but it was still present all the same. But add something messy like clay sculptures, and the idea of how terrible anything he made would look...and the dread definitely increased.

Nonetheless, he was attending all the same, and upon assessing the options, he decided that painting a pre-made sculpture would be a doable activity. Far less chance of ruining his clothes, so long as he was careful.

An apron was, of course, necessary as well, and so he walked over and selected a suitable one, slipping it over his head and carefully attempting to tie it behind him.

Charely Potter · 06-18-2023, 10:56 PM

Darej after some time became used to these out-of-the-box events welcoming the new year at the Ministry. Clay moulding itself was definitely... a choice. For him to dress his best there'd be some serious charms to repel the ensuring mess along with the appropriate covers. After his fun getaway, he was open and fairly happy to participate. He could mold something nice for his wife and kids each.

"Hey Sookie," Darej smiled as he went to grab an apron of his own to wear. Along with greeting the other Department Heads. "Is there going to be a beginner's course or we just winging it?" Either way, he didn't mind. But the latter meant he'd have to get some apologies ready for nearby patrons.

Kingston almost didn't join in. Mainly at seeing a certain someone arrive before him, but he wouldn't let them ruin his day. Years of a long-held grudge hasn't died down.. much. After glaring at the back of their head, his eyes looked at the rest where his usual grin emerged, "Good day, everyone!" His big hands were ready for molding. His Jer should be here as long as Emari didn't win the battle of not behaving. He clearly had some giant-blood swings in his terrible two tantrums. It took a lot for him to not giggle at the sight.

Hmm.. where shall he settle at?

Waddles · 06-20-2023, 03:33 AM

Though impeccably dressed as usual, Lisa was today employing a few tricks she had learned during her years playing Gobstones: hair safely bundled in a wrap, sleeves that reached just to her elbows, and sturdy clothes that had been charmed at stages of spinning, weaving, and sewing. She didn't even need an apron, so confident was the Magical Games and Sports department head in the durability of her outfit.

That didn't mean she hadn't donned an apron as soon as she arrived, however. Nearly seventy years on this earth had taught her that everything always went wrong. And having a backup method of clay deterrence was never a bad thing.

Okay, that last one she had learned in the last few months, but it was a useful thing to learn!

"Hello, team!" Lisa said, her tone almost as bright as the orange flowers on her scarf. "No formal course, Mr. Patterson, but I can get you started if you need some help getting the clay of it--er, the hang of it." She must have heard one too many puns from Charles, and it had begun rubbing off on her. She glanced around, to see if Patterson was the only one who needed help, or if any of the others did too.

*Nordic Witch* · 06-20-2023, 05:44 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Holmesian Feline

Could he get away with going all watchful -eye-on-the-perimeter of things?

Possibly, until the point in time a certain minister made his appearance and pulled him into his idea of fun. Especially if he felt Simon was keeping himself out of things on purpose. So if anyone asked, he was looking it over trying to decide just where to begin rather than just jumping into rather messy matters. Ah but perhaps he could be helpful instead…the MLEr moving slowly closer to the young man who he knew as new. “Good day,” he greeted with a polite smile.

Sophie entered the atrium, taking in the site of clay, sculptures and paint area and immediatly felt like retreating the way she had come. The DIMC ambassador had never been much for getting her hands dirty so to speak, but this bonding event was obligatory. Repressing a pout, and head rolling the blond woman spotted Simon and made a quick beeline for her friend to get a much needed ally for this event. Sophie was not going to endure this alone. "Hey Simon!" Sophie called out as she approached her friend "Have you had a good break? Can you be my partner for the clay sculpting please?" She needed an apron probably because she knew it'd get messy.

Quote:

Originally Posted by AlwaysSnapesGirl

To be quite honest, Ben was not excited about this event. Granted, there was often a little dread when it came to big social events like this. Not as much as when he was younger, but it was still present all the same. But add something messy like clay sculptures, and the idea of how terrible anything he made would look...and the dread definitely increased.

Nonetheless, he was attending all the same, and upon assessing the options, he decided that painting a pre-made sculpture would be a doable activity. Far less chance of ruining his clothes, so long as he was careful.

An apron was, of course, necessary as well, and so he walked over and selected a suitable one, slipping it over his head and carefully attempting to tie it behind him.

Laurel headed into the atrium wondering why a back at work event had her seer senses tingling. A bonding event with fellow ministry employees usually weren't something to worry about. Now it involved clay Laurel had heard from Airey, and that she felt excited to work with. Maybe she could make a sculpture of her family? Heading over to get an apron to not sulk down her purple dress Laurel smiled at the sight of another Mysteries employee who already had grabbed himself an apron. "Hello Ben! Are you happy to be back at work? Will you try sculpting from scratch or will you go with the safer choice of just painting a premade scupture?"

Quote:

Originally Posted by Charely Potter

Kingston almost didn't join in. Mainly at seeing a certain someone arrive before him, but he wouldn't let them ruin his day. Years of a long-held grudge hasn't died down.. much. After glaring at the back of their head, his eyes looked at the rest where his usual grin emerged, "Good day, everyone!" His big hands were ready for molding. His Jer should be here as long as Emari didn't win the battle of not behaving. He clearly had some giant-blood swings in his terrible two tantrums. It took a lot for him to not giggle at the sight.

Hmm.. where shall he settle at?

Aurora stood by the painting area, ready to help those employees who might need some painting tips for their sculptures. She had almost considered calling in sick, but as a department head the blonde woman felt that she had a responsibility to show up. Aurora had disliked every minute of the clay lessons that Charles had insisted on, but she hadn't told him that. Putting on a bright smile as she saw one of her department employees walk in Aurora waved to him and called over "Hey Kingston, did you have a good long break? Would you like to try painting one of the premade sculptures?" she asked with a gesture to the multiple figures that stood ready to be given paint. Aurora had not seen the stare that Kingston had shot another employee if she had she would have been very curious to know what laid behind the anger.

DuckyLinJi · 06-20-2023, 06:38 PM

Wearing a suit to his first day of work may not have been the best decision he'd made. In the morning, the newest employee had been nervously planning his outfit with the assistance of his father. A core memory he wasn't about to forget. But now that he saw the atrium, he was beginning to regret his suit.

He had completely forgotten about the clay sculpting event! Minjae tucked at his navy blue tie to loosen it and rolled up his sleeves to give it a more playful look as walked to a random table. Hopefully, the people would be nice to him...

Kevin checked the collar of his black turtleneck to see if the puncture wounds on his neck were properly hidden as he walked out of the fireplace. He'd been working for the MLE for years, but he still couldn't get used to the events that the Ministry put on every now and then. He'd rather work on the vials of memories on his desk than sculpting clay in his office.

He had learned to roll with it though over the years and took a seat at one of the tables. Perhaps he could get a raise if he pretended to have a good time. Very unlikely though...

BanaBatGirl · 06-20-2023, 11:55 PM

Bernie had a bad feeling about this... sculpting thing. She just suspected that the clay figurines were going to come to life at night, or angry merpeople were going to burst through the handwashing station, or some magical, evil, highly contagious illness was going to spread through contact with the clay. It was just a feeling, a paranoia, a healthy fear that had developed during her time as a YATI so far.

Still, she didn't want to look suspicious by sulking against a wall, so... she drifted over toward the pre-made figurines and picked one up, an innocent-looking sphinx with big dull eyes. Well. Would it be more or less scary if she painted the eyeballs in, and maybe added some eyelashes? Only one way to find out... Bernie settled in and picked up a paintbrush.

FearlessLeader19 · 06-23-2023, 03:08 AM

Perfect!

Here was someone who was bound to be able to help him. Truthfully, Lucas felt a little self conscious about his lack of knowledge on this activity; even reminding himself that there would be others who were first timers did not help. “Ms. Ho-Sook, hello. How many times do I have to ask you to call me Lucas?’’ The man would continue to refer to the Department Head as ‘Ms. Ho-Sook’ if she continued being formal. Still, he was smiling broadly. “I am. Confession? I have no idea how to get started so a little guidance would be appreciated in the sculpting department.” No, no. A lot of guidance, actually.

Brody spotted his uncle chatting with the Ecological Department Head and figured he’d go say hello to them both shortly. For now, he was happily checking out the entire setup, an arm still linked through his husband’s. “Do we want to do painting, sculpting, say hi to our colleagues, greet the new folks?” he questioned, his dark gaze still on the spread.

After a bit, he let his gaze wander to those nearby. Already he spotted a new face {Evan} and quite a few familiar ones. The Consulate decided that the activity was more important in this moment, however; it seemed to be calling his name. “I’m leaning towards painting,’’ he told Gabriel, having decided this was what his heart was set on. "Maybe we can paint a plant pot for the apartment? Or we can try our hands at making one." Hmmm. Both were great possibilities.

Chelliephone · 06-25-2023, 09:21 PM

Hearing Darej's familiar greeting, Sook glanced around to locate him at the aprons. She smiled her greeting before giving a small laugh at his question. "Hi Darej." She replied, before answering the question that perhaps was not meant as an actual one. "Well, officially we Department heads are your beginners course. But full disclosure... we only picked this up over break too." Some had definitely seemed to pick it up better than others, her being perhaps included in the last grouping, but they'd all had fun (hopefully) regardless. "If you're feeling less adventurous, you don't have to shape the clay yourself. We do have some pre-molded options you can glaze and throw into the kiln." Lisa was then joining them as well and ready to assist Darej, so she smiled at both of them before her attention returned solely to Mr. Hawthorne. Though out of the corner of her eye, she did spot her newest employee Mr. Yoon and made note to herself to find him and formally introduce herself before everyone was headed back up to their offices.

The use of her formal name was a fair point, and she gave another laugh as she nodded her head. "Alright, point taken Lucas. I'll commit to that as long as you call me Sookie." She had grown quite accustomed to the nickname since her day's of schooling, even though long ago she'd preferred Ho-Sook. "Your secret is safe with me. Do you want to take a spell at starting from the beginning or would you prefer to glaze something pre-crafted?" Regardless of the answer, she took some additional steps away merely to grab Lucas an apron he could put on over his attire.

Evan had just managed to spot the aprons hanging when he heard a nearby voice addressing him. Or, at least, he assumed he was being addressed. His attention turned to the man approaching, and he gave a polite nod of his head in greeting. He was fairly certain this was someone in the Law Enforcement office, but he had no idea on names. Perhaps this was one of the heads too? "Hello." He replied politely as well. As not a conversationalist, Evan wasn't certain what to say after that to a stranger now that he'd located his starting point. But he was saved from having to come up with something, as someone else seemed to call for the man. Simon, was it? He'd have to try to commit that memory for the next time he ran into the gentleman. "I see you're also already being drawn into the fray?" He remarked glancing back towards the woman. "Best of luck with the clay!"

He gave the man another friendly (as friendly as Evan knew how to be) nod, before awkwardly excusing himself to go and grab the located apron. It was as soon as he'd done so that he noticed a familiar face and grabbed a second apron as he made his way towards Minjae. Had he been expecting to run into his brother's best friend? Not really, but it was nice knowing someone. Stepping up beside the very well dressed man, Evan held out an apron his way. "You're making the rest of us new guys look bad." He remarked, a small smile.

Waddles · 06-26-2023, 02:08 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by FearlessLeader19

Brody spotted his uncle chatting with the Ecological Department Head and figured he’d go say hello to them both shortly. For now, he was happily checking out the entire setup, an arm still linked through his husband’s. “Do we want to do painting, sculpting, say hi to our colleagues, greet the new folks?” he questioned, his dark gaze still on the spread.

After a bit, he let his gaze wander to those nearby. Already he spotted a new face {Evan} and quite a few familiar ones. The Consulate decided that the activity was more important in this moment, however; it seemed to be calling his name. “I’m leaning towards painting,’’ he told Gabriel, having decided this was what his heart was set on. "Maybe we can paint a plant pot for the apartment? Or we can try our hands at making one." Hmmm. Both were great possibilities.

Gabriel calmly surveyed the artsy setup in the atrium as he stood next to his husband. Everything looked...under control. He made a note of the faces he didn't recognize, including some who looked barely out of school. Not that he and Brody were old, but they'd both worked at the ministry for several years now. He certainly felt old compared to some of the eager faces here.

"I think painting," he said, "I'd rather not have clay coating my wand hand." Juuuust in case. Touching Brody's elbow gently to indicate he was on the move, Gabriel led the way toward the premade sculptures and began sorting through them. "Maybe a vase? We could put flowers in it," he suggested. They didn't normally have cut flowers, but he thought it might be a nice way to keep their home feeling new.

SilverTiger · 06-27-2023, 12:36 AM

Social events weren’t new to Jemma and her experience, yet one at the Ministry was rather new to the brunette as she’d stepped into the atrium. She was aware of the reasoning behind there having been a bit of a lapse, what with her being dedicated to her career and all. As it was, she was mentally calculating the possible public relations aspects to the event, whether or not she’d be responsible for penning any releases that may become necessary. Aside from those that had announced the event themselves. This was infinitely different from those events that might have occurred back when she was in France, but it led to her feeling the charm out of it all. Not to mention the notice that she appeared to be the first to arrive from Level One, which made it that much more important. Media or not.

And she was unafraid of the sculpting activity, as well, snagging an apron with delicate fingers and donning it as she headed for an open station. It wasn’t as if there weren’t charms that could be used to prevent staining.

-----

It would have been a lie if she’d said there wasn’t a bit of trepidation felt when it came to attending another Ministry event. On that same note, though, Skye wasn’t letting that nervousness stop her from allowing herself the bonding time. It wasn’t her fault she’d gotten mernapped that last time the departments all got together, and she’d assured her parents of that fact before coming to work. Besides, there was a level of irony insofar as she worked for A&C in the first place. Accidents were in the name, after all, and she planned on avoiding any other instances of being taken without her permission on the job.

One would think the atrium was a safer location, anyhow. And she was prepared for anything, her blonde hair pulled back so as not to get clay or paint stuck in it. All that was left was to decide what she’d like to do, the painting or the creating.

*Lottiepot* · 06-28-2023, 02:08 PM

Allison McKinley, the newest recruit to the Ministry of Magic’s Minister Office and therefore utterly clueless as to who anyone was arrived at the event with the intention of meeting her fellow employees before she was thrown entirely in the deep end. She has been recruited as a daycare assistant. It made sense as she was a qualified teacher and therefore working with children was always on the agenda however she was just a tiny bit disappointed to have not been given more responsibility considering her level of education. She supposed her age and lack of experience may have resulted in that conclusion. That wasn’t to say she wasn’t going to absolutely give her all when it came to working with the intention that perhaps one day she might progress up the ladder.

She wouldn’t say she was the creative type although she always got herself stuck into whatever task was required. She was far more inclined to participate in muggle sports or drama club rather than being able to perfectly sculpt a model but alas she was here to make a good impression and not getting involved completely would certainly not give the impact she was hoping. Allie wasn’t timid in the slightest, she had been a Gryffindor at Hogwarts and gained energy from socialising with others rather than being by herself but that didn’t mean she was going to announce her entrance to the entire lobby. Her blonde hair tied up into a high ponytail and wearing a smart pair of jeans and a top that she wouldn’t mind getting dirty if it got a little messy, the twenty-four old padded her way into the atrium and took a good look around at the activities on offer and giving a warm smile towards anyone who looked in her direction.

FearlessLeader19 · 06-29-2023, 02:46 PM

Lucas’ smile only grew. Maybe, just maybe, from this time onwards Sookie would stick to a first name basis with him. He knew he would with her. “You can count on me to do exactly that.” If she slipped up? Lucas would simply call her ‘Ms. Ho-Sook’ again. Or ‘Ms. Baek’’, and he’d make sure to put extra emphasis on the ‘Ms.’. When the question was asked of him, the Quidditch Division Manager tapped his chin in thought, weighing his options. There wasn’t any rush for him to get home, there weren’t any other plans so… “Might as well start at the very beginning!” Lucas finally announced when Sookie came back with the apron. The beginning was always a good place to start. “What do I have to do first?” All of a sudden a little clay and water seemed intimidating.

Brody snuck a gaze at Mr. Buff and Handsome beside him. He knew the hubster well enough to know that Gabe was surveying the surroundings for potential trouble and possibly places to ensure Brody could safely get to should there be any life threatening situation. Even if Brody was more than capable of handling himself, he was no Auror and Gabriel was extremely protective of him. Oh, the Consulate wasn’t complaining; it was awfully wonderful to be protected.

See? Exactly what Brody had been thinking: Gabriel was staying alert. He followed the other man, knowing better than to just advise him to relax and have a good time. “Is it natural, after all this time, to be laser focused on keeping an eye out for trouble and to have a good time simultaneously?” Brody asked quietly as he came up beside Gabe once again. It was a half tease, half serious sort of question since he really was curious. Since the start of them being a couple, Brody had always been the more relaxed of the two in social outings, a role he had grown into quite comfortably. “I like that. Maybe for the dining table in the living room areas. I reckon your mum would love bringing over flowers whenever she visited.” Already Brody was sorting through colours they could use for the painting. “Find a vase you like?”

*Holmesian Feline* · 07-03-2023, 03:13 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Nordic Witch

Sophie entered the atrium, taking in the site of clay, sculptures and paint area and immediatly felt like retreating the way she had come. The DIMC ambassador had never been much for getting her hands dirty so to speak, but this bonding event was obligatory. Repressing a pout, and head rolling the blond woman spotted Simon and made a quick beeline for her friend to get a much needed ally for this event. Sophie was not going to endure this alone. "Hey Simon!" Sophie called out as she approached her friend "Have you had a good break? Can you be my partner for the clay sculpting please?" She needed an apron probably because she knew it'd get messy.

Of the list of people Simon had mentally made that would make sure he took part in this creative activity even if he had expressed no desire, the auror-turned-security head had to admit he hadn’t counted Sophie to be the guilty party. Yet there she was calling his name, the man turning and smiling at his friend as she came up beside him. “Hello…I did indeed,” he remarked, answering her greeting with one of his own. “How about you?”

And then the question that he was too kind to try and respond to the negative. “Well I suppose I could be persuaded.” Just as long as they weren’t being judged on their work. The man deciding off the bat he was best not even trying to spinning things to avoid the worst of the potential mess, his clothes already charmed in anticipation of today’s event.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Chelliephone

Evan had just managed to spot the aprons hanging when he heard a nearby voice addressing him. Or, at least, he assumed he was being addressed. His attention turned to the man approaching, and he gave a polite nod of his head in greeting. He was fairly certain this was someone in the Law Enforcement office, but he had no idea on names. Perhaps this was one of the heads too? "Hello." He replied politely as well. As not a conversationalist, Evan wasn't certain what to say after that to a stranger now that he'd located his starting point. But he was saved from having to come up with something, as someone else seemed to call for the man. Simon, was it? He'd have to try to commit that memory for the next time he ran into the gentleman. "I see you're also already being drawn into the fray?" He remarked glancing back towards the woman. "Best of luck with the clay!"

He gave the man another friendly (as friendly as Evan knew how to be) nod, before awkwardly excusing himself to go and grab the located apron. It was as soon as he'd done so that he noticed a familiar face and grabbed a second apron as he made his way towards Minjae. Had he been expecting to run into his brother's best friend? Not really, but it was nice knowing someone. Stepping up beside the very well dressed man, Evan held out an apron his way. "You're making the rest of us new guys look bad." He remarked, a small smile.

As for the young man he had greeted, it seemed he was using Sophie’s claim on Simon’s time to intricate himself from further conversation with him. Perhaps it was because he was MLE, or an older member of ministry staff, or the younger man was just feeling awkward in his new surroundings and preferred finding his own feet or others his own age. Whichever, Simon got the picture and backed off. “I seems I have…” he agreed with a nod. “Good luck with your own creativity,” he echoed, figured this morning’s activity might be a stretch to a fair few, including himself. [/COLOR]

-----------------------------------

Sure, Noah had heard all the tales of various ministry bonding experiences from his father’s stories. Well, most of them. He was sure the older Bennett was sure to keep some things under wraps due to happenings. But he hadn’t really lived any himself other than the planting with Environmental as he still considered on the newer side. So the personal assistant wasn’t sure what to make of it as he stepped into the atrium all decked out for arts and crafts.

At least he had a touch more of a creative streak than his father so he figured it might be easier on him this time around. His gaze flitting to the man in question as he noticed his dad seemingly settling into the ceramics making portion. Though even if he didn’t, he knew he had a responsibility to get involved for sure given his boss. Noah opting for the painting side, grabbing an apron and settling it over his work clothes as he looked over his options of projects.

Helios Sunrider · 07-03-2023, 05:49 PM

Having been told his presence was needed in the Atrium, Damian had arrived in haste. Realizing that he had tricked into attending a team building exercise, his normally calm blue eyes burned hotter than the kilns. The unspeakable wanted to turn on his heels and leave whence he came. But he couldn't let the others see that he had been tricked, so he lifted his chin, and strode amongst the crowd as if he fully intended to be here in the first place.

Damian rolled up his sleeves, and stared down at a lump of clay, as if trying to will it into shape. Though a musician in his youth, the well-dressed wizard was no longer a creator. In fact, the Ministry paid him rather well to be a master of the opposite. As lead mortemist, his knowledge about death, along with the creatures and magics associated with it, was second to none.

When he wanted something made, he had a wizard for that. Someone who could take what others saw as junk and create the fantastic. Damian did find some comfort in working with clay. He could form it, pound it back into a lump, and form it again. There was no destruction, only the changing of shape. He repeated this process nearly a dozen times before he found something he wanted to work with.

A coffee mug. A simple, useful work of artistic expression. If someone asked, he might even admit he was enjoying himself as he smoothed, and rounded out the mugs shape.

Chelliephone · 07-08-2023, 04:02 PM

Sookie could at least endeavor to try to use Lucas' full name, but she couldn't make promises that she wouldn't make those mistakes. At least he already knew the effective counter for this - perhaps after one or two subtle corrections it would actually stick. Ah, so someone willing to take on the challenge from the very beginning! She grinned at his sense of adventure, giving a nod in understanding before gesturing towards others that had already begun on the available potter wheels. "Let's grab a wheel then should we? Any ideas what you might like to create? I found a bowl or a pot to be the easiest, but mugs or cups are certainly more versatile." Each station was set up with the necessary items for creation as well, including available clay and some water to add for different consistencies as well as to rinse once's own hands if the mess was a little too much.

Leading Lucas over towards an empty wheel beside Mr. Pendragon , she also passed a woman (Allison) that had joined the fray and seemed to be for the moment just observing. Meeting her eyes, Sookie returned the smile before calling out an invitation to join them. "We're just now working on creating from scratch if you'd like to join us over here." She could assist more than one person at one time. Besides, she might even be able to snag a wheel herself and create with them and just visit. That was part of the point of this experience, correct?

Glancing over at Mr. Pendragon's work too whilst giving Lucas time to get situation, she watched him for a moment. "You look like a natural already at this, Damien. Is pottery one of your hobbies outside of work?" He certainly seemed to know what he was doing. And if she wasn't mistaken, she believed she could even see the beginning shapes of a mug.

AlwaysSnapesGirl · 07-09-2023, 04:32 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Nordic Witch

Laurel headed into the atrium wondering why a back at work event had her seer senses tingling. A bonding event with fellow ministry employees usually weren't something to worry about. Now it involved clay Laurel had heard from Airey, and that she felt excited to work with. Maybe she could make a sculpture of her family? Heading over to get an apron to not sulk down her purple dress Laurel smiled at the sight of another Mysteries employee who already had grabbed himself an apron. "Hello Ben! Are you happy to be back at work? Will you try sculpting from scratch or will you go with the safer choice of just painting a premade scupture?"

Ben had just finished tying the apron on himself when his colleague Laurel approached him. "I am happy, yes," he answered, "though perhaps a bit less so with the activity at hand." But he did enjoy his work here overall, far more than sitting alone in his flat for the holidays. Though he enjoyed solitude at times, it quickly melded into loneliness when the holidays rolled around.

"I am not much of an artist, but painting a premade sculpture seems the safest route to take," he continued. "And you? Will you be trying your hand at sculpting?"

Quote:

Originally Posted by BanaBatGirl

Bernie had a bad feeling about this... sculpting thing. She just suspected that the clay figurines were going to come to life at night, or angry merpeople were going to burst through the handwashing station, or some magical, evil, highly contagious illness was going to spread through contact with the clay. It was just a feeling, a paranoia, a healthy fear that had developed during her time as a YATI so far.

Still, she didn't want to look suspicious by sulking against a wall, so... she drifted over toward the pre-made figurines and picked one up, an innocent-looking sphinx with big dull eyes. Well. Would it be more or less scary if she painted the eyeballs in, and maybe added some eyelashes? Only one way to find out... Bernie settled in and picked up a paintbrush.

Penelope could appreciate a piece of art as well as the next person. It would be difficult not to, after being around her husband Zeppelin and her daughter Ivy, who were both the more artistic types. But it also meant that creating art like this was more in their wheelhouse too, not hers.

She wasn't one to back down from a challenge though. Attempting something new didn't bother her. The reluctance came more from the fact that focusing on sculpting the clay or painting an already-made one would take away from the awareness of the rest of the room. It was second nature after so many years, but especially so after the events in recent memory. There were only Ministry employees here, so likely little chance of something like the mermaids kidnapping people happening here, but that didn't mean something else couldn't happen. Something could always happen.

So. For now, she took a spot near one of the new YATIs, who was working on a sphinx figurine. "Didn't know you were a painter, Grantham." Probably would be better than anything Penelope herself painted though.

FearlessLeader19 · 07-12-2023, 12:14 AM

Don’t let his middle age {ish} ever fool anyone! Lucas Riley Hawthorne was always up for a challenge. He thrived on them, and it was a part of why he enjoyed working in the Games and Sports Department so much. Difficult situations presented themselves each day. How hard could it be to make something here today? All would be revealed soon. As he followed Sookie, Lucas considered her advice as though the answer depended on his life.

“I’m leaning towards a bowl,’’ he finally replied, stepping beside Damien. He offered the Mysteries man a hearty smile. “Hello, Damien! It’s good to see you here today.” Indeed Lucas had become a bit fond of the man, as he was of Ronan, both of whom had helped keep Brody safe from that vampire {not that the nephew needed to be kept safe; Brody was more than capable of handling himself}. So… back to that bowl. “If all goes well, Sookie, I will present Tallie with it.” His wife certainly would appreciate the gesture of him making something from scratch.

Helios Sunrider · 07-21-2023, 06:01 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Chelliephone

Glancing over at Mr. Pendragon's work too whilst giving Lucas time to get situation, she watched him for a moment. "You look like a natural already at this, Damien. Is pottery one of your hobbies outside of work?" He certainly seemed to know what he was doing. And if she wasn't mistaken, she believed she could even see the beginning shapes of a mug.

Damian wasn't exactly sure what he was doing, but he was focused and determined. So focused, he did not immediately notice the others around him. As far as he was concerned, it was just him and the lump of clay taking shape in his hands. "Hm?" Most of his coworkers gave him a wide berth, claiming there was a black dog always nipping at his heels. Sookie was kind though. She treated him no differently than any other witch or wizard. "I have not found much time for hobbies since I got back from Atlantis." Referring to the infamous incident where Damian was but one of a dozen captured employees. "Though I must admit I am enjoying myself."

Working on the handle, the unspeakable held up the mug that was beginning to take shape. It wasn't fine art, but it was his, crafted by his own two hands. "What will you be working on today?"

He was about to get back to working the clay when Lucas approached. Lucas seemed rather friendly and was related to Brody if he recalled. "Hello, Lucas. What's new in your world?" Damian paused momentarily. Was he getting along with his colleagues? As much as he put on the airs of a loner, he did enjoy the comradery.

Chelliephone · 07-30-2023, 09:31 PM

Sookie certainly appreciated Lucas' can-do spirit. But had she heard his thoughts, she also would have cautioned the fact this was more difficult (and messier) than it had seemed like it would be! Although, perhaps it was good she did not know to mention that, as perhaps it was only HER that had not been able to get the hang of it. A very valid option that might have wounded her pride just the slightest bit.

A bowl was an excellent option. Not too difficult of a shape, but still plenty of surface area for customization once they reached the glazing stage. Hearing Lucas mention his plans to gift to his wife if everything went well, she gave a soft laugh. "I imagine your wife would appreciate it even if all did not go well." It was the being considered by one's partner that was important, after all, wasn't it? Not that she'd really had one long enough to know that for certain but... with the relationships she'd had over the years the little things had been what she appreciated the most.

Ah, yes. Atlantis. It was difficult for Sookie to repress the desire to flinch at the mention - the guilt she felt over that whole ordeal and her introduction to the ministry was immense. Even if she technically had not done anything wrong herself, her department had a large hand along with DIMC and the Minister's office in orchestrating the event. It had been quite regrettable for the captives to have been taken away from their lives and families for so long. She knew a many of them were still getting their life back in order. "Ah.. yes. I imagine it would be difficult to jump back into things outside of work, isn't it?" Probably difficult to jump back into things AT work too. She admired the fact he'd even shown up for another ministry wide orientation event after the prior. "I'm glad you're enjoying yourself. Is this your first time creating something?" If so, colour her jealous.

Seeing that Lucas was all set and she could not see anyone else in immediate need of attention, she decided she would take a moment to sit with the gentlemen and create something of her own. Taking the next open potter wheel, she adjusted her apron over her clothes again and reached for her own clump of clay to put on the wheel. What was she going to make? "I think I'll go for a vase for flowers in my office. Though, do not quote me on that as I might change my mind to whatever the clay tells me it desires to be." Which she was very much doubting would actually be the desired vase. She grinned at both of her companions before getting to work.

FearlessLeader19 · 08-02-2023, 11:31 PM

Yes, it was rather messy. Lucas could see that quite clearly. Rather than being revolted or squirmish, he was actually looking forward to it. “I agree. Tallie always says ‘it’s the thought that counts’ when it comes to gift giving. That’s very lucky for me.” Lucas was quite aware that not many would interact with Damien. Whatever the reason, the Quidditch Division Manager didn’t care. “Not a thing! It’s all the same but it doesn’t bother me. I’m a guy that prefers routine; it’s quite comfortable in my old age.” Not that he was that old but a quiet life was preferred.

Lucas was quite delighted to learn that Sookie would be joining her and Damien. Of course, this made sense seeing that her expertise was needed. He had no trouble following her lead by adding clay to the wheel. Next up would be to add a bit of water, or so Lucas thought. Everyone seemed to be doing this but because of not wanting to rush ahead without Sookie’s guidance, their conversation was focused upon. “A vase is a great idea. I’m not sure I would manage to get that as shapely as it needs to be.” Maybe someday, if he had more practice with this sort of thing.

Helios Sunrider · 08-11-2023, 03:50 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Chelliephone

Ah, yes. Atlantis. It was difficult for Sookie to repress the desire to flinch at the mention - the guilt she felt over that whole ordeal and her introduction to the ministry was immense. Even if she technically had not done anything wrong herself, her department had a large hand along with DIMC and the Minister's office in orchestrating the event. It had been quite regrettable for the captives to have been taken away from their lives and families for so long. She knew a many of them were still getting their life back in order. "Ah.. yes. I imagine it would be difficult to jump back into things outside of work, isn't it?" Probably difficult to jump back into things AT work too. She admired the fact he'd even shown up for another ministry wide orientation event after the prior. "I'm glad you're enjoying yourself. Is this your first time creating something?" If so, colour her jealous.

Taking a look away from the mug that was forming in his hands, Damian made brief eye contact with Sookie. He didn't need legilimency to notice how she felt when he mentioned Atlantis. "I did create music while I was under the sea." Offering a brief smile, even he had to admit that his time in captivity wasn't completely terrible.

"The acoustics are different at the bottom of the ocean, and the merpeople's instruments don't work the same on land, so I wouldn't be able to recreate those performances if I wanted to." With a little bit more smoothing, the mug looked ready. With a subtle gesture, the mug hung weightlessly in the air as Damian gave it a final inspection. "But they'll always live in my memory."

Like clay, they were molded by their experiences. Even simple group exercises like this helped shape him into a more well rounded person.

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