Passions of an Odd Chick

Saturday, September 6, 2008

Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished.

This is a mixed-media piece that I added to my journal. Small slivers of cards, stickers, words and favorite stamps entertained me as I layered one after another between regular chores - just taking my time. So many people think art takes a lot of time and what they don't realize, what I'm learning to realize, is that art can be part of your everyday walk-around existence. I sketched a flower scene at a doctor's office while I waited for my father-in-law. Later, I dropped India ink onto the pages between loads of laundry and let them dry. I cut out cards that were laying on my bar waiting to be thrown away. I added the sequin taken off a wedding invitation. I painted with watercolor pencils between paying the bills and making lotions and creams. Stamping this, sponging that. Just walking by and thinking, "hmm, I could add this...", "maybe it needs that".


Hey, I have a novel idea (she says a little sarcastically)! How about let's not rush this week. Let's just add layers of interest and beauty to each life we touch. Let's walk by a soul and say, "hmm, I could add this...", "maybe, she/he needs that" and possibly the collage of goodness we've layered one on top of the other will produce something beautiful to send out into the world, and art will be more than just a hobby or profession, it will be a sacred practice.








6 comments:

Ruth Hull Chatlien said...

What a lovely idea . . . both in its application to art and to life in general.

Karin Bartimole said...

I love that - all!! The realization of art being something that can be an integrated part of living daily life is so right on. Then taking that artistic approach to the layering of life touching is so beautiful. The richness of your journal experience comes through!
much peace,Karin

Unknown said...

Aaaaaah .... you really led us somewhere with your thoughts today ..... I was doing laundry with you, playing with ink, waiting in a doctor's office .... and now I'm thinking about who may be needing a simple hug or genuine smile .... thank you!

Sara at Come Away With Me said...

You have a wonderful way of using art and story to say something real and full of life. This is my first visit but I've spent a few minutes perusing ...your use of color is marvelous. Those little fluffy blue birds on the branch in your sidebar are charming; the ones at the top too.

Anyway, thank you for visiting and commenting recently on my blog. I'll come visit again soon.

Steve Emery said...

Rats - I thought maybe my comment from last night didn't make it through. Now what did I say???

I love the collage, especially the free use of color and the way the critters are arranged with each other. Of course Grenouille was pleased to see some fellow frogs, even if toxic ones. What an incredible blue.

And I LOVE the thoughts in your post - about art all the time and as natural as cooking or arranging our fireplace mantle items as we walk by. And best of all was your last sentiment, which I tried to keep today. Unfortunately I was overwhelmed early and didn't stick to it. Tomorrow is another day.

kartika said...

Thanks for reminding me that I can do my art as I walk from room to room or anytime I choose to stop - there is so much I want to create and it is easy to let your life get in the way if you don't stay alert and focused on what is around you! Kartika