I recently completed an art project for a local fundraiser sponsored by my favorite shop in Frederick, Md – The Muse. It’s a once a year event. Local artists and ‘Muse’ patrons purchase an 8 x 8 canvas to decorate and donate for auction. Each time there is a different theme and charity recipient.
This year the collected monies will go to COIPP (the Children Of Incarcerated Parents Partnership). The inspirational theme is a children’s book called The Dot by Peter H. Reynolds. In the story, a young artist doubts her ability to create art. Her teacher encourages her by saying “ Just make a mark and see where it takes you.”
As is often the case, the lessons of a children’s story can resonate with us adults too. Shaking off self-doubt and the ‘I can’ts’ by taking a small step toward a goal is brilliant advice. I use this method when I’m stuck in the studio or tackling a daunting task. If I break down what seems insurmountable into doable chunks, the job becomes much easier.
This week in the studio I’ve been chipping away at the various stages of clay-making on all sorts of projects. A kiln full of bisqued pieces were glazed and fired. I began creating a set of custom totems that will complement ones I installed several years ago. A surprise gift for one customer’s wife is now in mid-stage firing in the bisque kiln. Instead of feeling overwhelmed by all of these projects, I’m grateful and have embraced every step of their creation.