I create art because I want to, not because I have to...mmm...that's not quite right either...I am compelled to be creative...if I didn't do this, who knows how that extra energy would manifest itself...
but I do this by choice, not by lot...
One of the most frequent comments I hear at shows is "You must have fun doing this." Or "I can tell you are really enjoying yourself." And its true - it is fun...because if it wasn't, I wouldn't be doing it. I appreciate that this unspoken aspect comes out in my work...for me, its a great compliment. What I do communicates my view of life...and when others connect with that view, all the better. I have no grand illusions that I'm creating genius masterpieces...nor am I just ginning out some pretty gewgaws to make money. Its interesting to walk around art shows and view all the other booths...I find that there are certain booths that draw me in and speak to me...I'm feeling an unspoken vibe of another artist doing what they do because its fun and enjoyable...
This past weekend at the Phinney Winter Festival, I had a fantastic show...and want to thank everyone who came to the show, stopped at my booth and chatted with me...from the three sisters who pooled their money to buy one of my "EAT" silverware collages as a present for their mom... to the teacher who has been using my "Keep Going" card that she purchased years ago as a creative writing prompt in her English class... to the man who mentioned that I rivaled Joseph Cornell with my collage boxes (kind but a little over the top!)
While I didn't have much time to get around the entire show,
there were a couple of artists whose energy drew me in...
Heather Davidson creates exquisite necklaces from her simple line drawings...and you would never guess that the charms are made from plastic (shrinky-dinks!)
Frances Clements Fawcett has a wild way with wool...
I'm taking one of her classes next weekend located at her Port Townsend studio...can't wait...
The simple and harmonious display and the soothing scents of beautanical organic bath products seemed to be imbued with Sarah Dean's calm presence.
And finally, I had the pleasure to have a great neighbor at the show...Justin Fischer who creates iconic ornaments, crosses and shrines, paying homage to saints and sinners alike. Unfortunately Justin has no online presence so I can't provide a link...you'll just have to be on the lookout for him within the Seattle art community!
With all the frenzy of holiday shopping, I hope you will consider buying local and buying handmade...
a gift filled with artistic energy...and certain to bring joy...
