Pep Talk

[Photo: Putting too much old paper into the blender.]

There is an artist in each of us, a part of ourselves that delights in creativity. But sometimes we are too judgmental of the things we create and do not let this part express itself at all. Although we may have an idea in mind of what we want to create, sometimes our creations fall short of our expectations. Rather than be disappointed with your results, take a look at what you did make. Many times there are lovely things that happen outside of your expectations. Be open to seeing what is happening. Creativity arises out of intuition and often, through what can be called an accident, a process evolves that one could never have consciously invented. If you are open to the process and watch what happens, you may find new ways of doing things and you may find yourself making things you never thought of nor imagined.  It's quite fun. 

Some people are naturally more dexterous than others and may have a more fascile ability to create certain quality type things, but, when allowed to express themselves, even so-called clumsy fingers can make things that, while looking different, might be even more interesting than a slick result.

In addition to manual dexterity, mood and attitude also have an impact on what you create. If you are in a boisterous and raucous mood, your paper may have a wild and untamed look. The spirit and mood of the maker will become part of the overall effect of the work If you have an untamed temperament and you wish to make something that looks subdued and gentle, you will have to calm yourself down while working. If you are a shy and quiet type individual and you wish to make something boisterously expressive, you will have to excite yourself and work with more abandon. I want to put things out into the world that lift people's spirits. Because of this choice, when I am making art I attempt to put myself into a peaceful and heartfelt mood of good feelings and loving-kindness. This 'feeling state' that I am in becomes part of the work and people who look at my artwork are soothed by it. That is my purpose in creation. What is yours?