What makes your tatting art?

The question arose again as I told a friend about my donation piece. I have no authority like a degree or financial success to argue that my lace is “art” or even that it is not a “craft” to be relegated to various pigeon holes. In my quest for trying to talk about what I do, I’m usually reading something about music or art. I’m currently trying to read a Google Books version of Eye of the Painter by Andrew Loomis. The author makes a distinction between “pretty art” and beautiful art. He talks of the difference between commercial art and fine art. Of course, this method is focused on painting only. He even says something can be pleasing as in a piece of embroidery or a design on wallpaper, but not really art. My reaction: Sigh!

My tatting strives to get people to think. About music, about how things can look, about remembrances of what they have heard. I hope it is pleasing to the eye. I hope it can be displayed in a home or office. I hope it stretches what people recognize as lace just a bit. Is it “art” or just…..?

I’ve decided I will create. For me. For the odd person who likes my ideas. I’ll leave the designation of “art” to others who seem more inclined to argue and parse than to enjoy.

Bottom line: Support the arts. Put in a ticket for my piece in the Fundraiser (link when it opens) and enjoy music represented in lace.

Glory

Just a word. We can use it as a noun or verb. Add a few letters and Glory becomes Glorious. Will June 2020 be Glorious?

In the Program

Those local to Monterey may have figured out that I review concerts for a website. I don’t consider myself a journalist and I ALWAYS ask for my text to be proofread before submittal. As my daughter said once I don’t “grammar” well. She admonished me to stick to playing music and tatting lace. Don't let a teenager limit you. 

I was pleasantly encouraged to read a column by a restaurant reviewer this week. Raul Nava will be writing for the Monterey Herald. In his column, he wrote of his vision. He wishes to “avoid the traditional parade of critical commentary on dish after dish.” That sums up my vision for my reviews. 

I could write words detailing every mistake, expressing my own personal bias, or slamming the venue. But, I like encouraging people to play music, buy tickets to hear music, and to explore compositions they haven’t yet come to love. Sure, I’ll be attending concerts that will be a negative experience. I’ve played some concerts and services that I’d really, really like a do-over! Sure, recordings are available for free. I recommend newbie concert goers listen to the music at least once before settling in their seat and perusing the program.

I’ve decided that will be my “by-line” for these reviews: In the Program.

I hope if you see me at a concert, you’ll let me know you read this blog and give me feedback. Oh, and invite someone to explore the music with you. There are plenty of people out there who hesitate to attend a concert, and would be glad for the encouragement!