Creativity Gives Comfort

With news of violence and sickness hanging over us its no wonder we feel lost, anxious and fearful.   Being creative can be a real way to settle the nerves.   When teaching, I often get students who say "I'm not creative; I can't do anything!"  Being creative not only comes in the form of a paint brush,  sewing needle or crochet hook.   There are good cooks, interior designers, hair stylists, landscapers, and architects to name a few.  You may be good at letter writing, taking care of your friendships, or arranging flowers.  Talents are gifts to all of us that expand our world.  Teaching also is a way to spread talents (I especially like teaching art to small humans).   What is your talent?

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This week I spent time finishing a project that I had been frustrated with, a geometric bracelet with small beads.  There was no space for mistakes, and I had many.  I think I rethreaded my needle about as many times as there were beads.

I know I'll enjoy wearing it and be humbled by the fact it took some real concentration to get it done.

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One of my favorite artists is Frida Kahlo.   Such an artist with a sense of passion, self portrayal and use of color.  Frida had an accident at a young age and suffered immense pain for the rest of her life. Painting was her medicine, and it followed her life span.  It gave her comfort.  She said, " My painting carries with it the message of pain."  She wasn't as famous when she lived, but her story and art have carried her memory through to museums, books, galleries and collectors.  

"The only thing I know is that I paint because I need to, and I paint whatever passes through my head without any other consideration." - Frida

I beaded this cabochon that was gifted to me with small seed beads and glass flowers.  It hangs in my studio as a reminder that art can come from anywhere, even from a raw place of pain and despair.

 Frida's self portrait 1940.    Roots around her neck symbolizing the growing pain she experienced and the smothering feeling of being consumed by it. 

I wish comfort for all of you this week as we pass through turbulent times.  Reflect on your talents and hopefully you may find peace and comfort there.

Living an ARTful life...

It's been three years since I have posted on my blog.  The blog took a back seat to work, family and volunteer duties.  I have since retired,  enjoying more travel to see my first granddaughter and have been finding my way back to doing my art practices.   I am my most happy when submersed in artful activities and living an "artful" life.
I'm happy to say that I have been teaching a summer art program for children, have joined an art studio and have taught classes in local art stores. This year, I'm teaching my first art camp in September for adults. Hopefully the pandemic will be calmed down by then and it is safe to do so.
Teaching has always been my first love, whether young children or adults.  It is wonderful to see a student find joy with new information or a new hobby.

What does living an artful life mean?  For me, it's being absorbed in color, textures, environment, being with fellow artists and sharing my love of art.   I take part in a wonderful art studio called The cARTel, run by friend Meri Wiley.   A consortium of artists attend weekly studio time and share their creations and art techniques.  This has been a joy to take part in.   I keep art journals for technique experimentationn to help fuel my artful muse.   This is not to say that the artful muse hides from me at times, making it hard to find inspiration.   I think every artist goes through this at some time or another. 

 I've still been beading for 35 years; and this has always been my first love.  I  took beading classes from the Objibwa Native Americans in Wisconsin every summer during my 20's.  My skills have advanced and I find joy in making jewelry pieces for myself and others.   In addition, I have ventured into painting, mixed media, and other mediums.  

A triptych of Frida Kahlo

 

Even though I consider myself advanced in different mediums; I continue to try new mediums and techniques.  We all should never stop learning.  It is through learning we grow in skill and self worth to find an enriched life.

I will be posting new ideas, techniques and weekly posts to help you live an artful life.  Til next time, stay healthy and safe my friends.