Creativity

 Recently, I came across a quote I can get behind: “Creativity flourishes not in certainty, but in questions.” Now, if I told you who is quoted, you will immediately have assumptions that I don’t consider relevant to this blog post. Allright, I’ll tell you who later.

Let it suffice to say that the quote spoke to me because I always tell my students, and myself, that if I’m making mistakes, I’m learning. It’s when I make the same mistake repeatedly that I really need to pay attention and correct the mistake.

Part of that process is trying new skills, techniques, and well….ideas.

Another part of that process is repetition.

And the final part is critiquing your creative output. My adventure with the Dissent necklace is still ongoing. I asked for a critique from a highly respected designer. She pinged me on some obvious points. I was a bit embarrassed as I know to finish a piece better than I did. I was just too excited to share my creativity. Other points she made I hadn’t considered. For that I am very grateful. My adventure will continue….

With questions.

Dissent finished and submitted

 To see what other lacers have created out of their stash, visit this link:

IOLI lace challenge 1: stash

To see my quick photo of the necklace, you can scroll down almost to the bottom or just search for my name.

Now for earrings to match. I have 4 great ideas. I usually try to come up with 5 sketches before I start putting the ideas into thread. I can’t wait this time!! One is a crackin’ goodun.

In the meantime, here’s my Day 7 of Jane’s TIAS:

Ya wants some whine with that?

 Quite a few of my Holidays find me gettin’ real whiney. As a church musician, December is non-stop performance. The music requested runs the gamut: 13 th century to 21 century; obscure sacred text to the latest poem by a “star”; and when someone actually is courteous enough to ask me to pick the music, I never know if it will please the listener. This year is no exception! Even without the in-person option, I’ve fielded enough requests for something everybody likes (read secular kids songs) to something easy (read a favorite of theirs that I’m sure to butcher). So, I’m whiney. When I allow myself to talk. Hint: if your musical friend isn’t saying much it’s because their just tired of the demands made on them this time of year. If they share anything, don’t talk, just listen. They really, really don’t care to know that Aunt Tilley loved the way Uncle Arthur sang O Holy Night. Let them celebrate authentically. You’ll enjoy their company a lot more, trust me!

OK rant over. I’ll know who has been around musicians by how loudly you’re laughing.

I spent time yesterday playing with beads and thread. My beaded version of Dissent is shaping up nicely. After several hours of notetaking, math problems, and researching bead packaging, I determined I have enough beads to start loading them on tatting. Who knew 1000 beads weight just a few grams? I should have pictures to share next week. Unless I change my mind. We’ll see what the future brings.

Because there will be a future. I promise to fill it with music and tatting. Really. Just give me some wine time!