The throwing process is one in which the potter helps the clay “find its place” on the wheel.  As the clay is “centered”, the potter chooses the pressure and  placement of his hands and wheel head speed.  Centrifugal force does the rest.  It sounds simple, but this is an oriental philosophy of clay.  Clay should not be overpowered, but given direction.  An opening is then placed in the middle of the clay mound.  A wide cylinder is created and then the wall or side of the pot is “pulled”.  Once this form is accomplished, the potter guides the clay to become a vase, bowl or plate.  As the potter gains experience, the process takes on an almost magical ease and simplicity.  The potter wants to impart this simplicity to the form he is making.