Friday, April 25, 2014

Why, not how

One of the things I learned from Cas Holmes last week was, when describing my work, I should talk about the "why" not the "how".   I rarely do this, as I don't even discuss this with myself. I have a vision for a piece of work, and I don't even ask myself why it is important to me or where the idea came from.  I have never written an artist statement since I never think hard about my "vision", my ideas, and why I want to create a certain piece of art.  I don't have a specific theme that runs through my work, except when I specifically create a series about a subject.  Without telling myself to create a series, I would be all over the map with technique, materials, and subject matter.

I have been blogging a while now, and realize I almost never mention my motivation or insight into the "why" of my pieces.  I will still be blogging on techniques I use for fabric dyeing, painting, surface design, etc. But when I post a completed work, I plan on concentrating on the "why".  Because not only will this give viewers a better understanding of me and my work, it will give me a better understanding as well. And maybe soon I can get that artist statement written.

4 comments:

  1. I'm glad that you posted your bog address. I've added it to my blog list. The points you make resonated with me too. although it's been a busy week at work getting pulled in every direction, today is my play date with myself to continue with what we started last weekend.

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    1. Good to hear from you Marissa! I am sure you will have a great day creating. I plan to work in the studio tomorrow, but need to finish some unfinished projects before starting new. That methyl cellulose I found is calling my name though...

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  2. Great introduction to your new way of thinking, Ginger. I will also add you to blogs I read (pretty) regularly. (I don't have one myself.) Have fun creating! I will be working on my workshop piece today, yay! xo

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    1. I am looking forward to some art time tomorrow. Today I am working on downsizing my art stuff since I'll be moving in two months. It may take that long to reduce my stash. I keep finding things I can use with the techniques we learned. We are going on a house hunting trip starting Sunday, so have 5 hours each way to work on my hand embroidery.

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