We have an art gallery in our living room. Twenty-six handmade pieces of one-of-a-kind art secured to the wall with Scotch Tape, hanging, slightly crooked, under our stairs for all the world (or our family) to enjoy. The gallery began about two weeks ago, during a winter storm. The wind whistled outside while snowflakes danced...
It began with a family meeting. At least for my siblings and I, that’s how it began. Surely my parents had been discussing it for months or even years before that late winter evening. I think it was February. It could have been March. It was dark outside and the kitchen was illuminated by the...
It was the summer of 2010 when I first began writing like this–in a public space. I use the word “public” loosely. Do a few close friends and family count as public? Either way, it was the first time I wrote outside of the bound pages of my journal–outloud–for anyone to see. I remember...
It gets monotonous at times, yes. The daily picture. The discipline. The daily looking, finding, seeing, creating. On day #1 I record on Flickr, 1/365. On day number one it feels like a fresh sheet of paper, a new journal, a book just opened. On day number one it’s fresh. It’s new. It’s exciting. On...
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I am drawn to many different types of art. I think that to really appreciate art, I had to look at many different styles by many different artists. Gradually, I stopped looking at art critically because I came to understand that each piece was perfect in its own way. I dug deeper to understand the individual behind the work. What is the artist saying with her work, why does the topic interest her? I find that I learn things about myself through appreciation of the art made by others. So, the fun house mirrors fade away or transform into something else -a looking glass, maybe?. Here’s a challenge for you: check out the art of Vik Muniz and the garbage pickers. I think you’ll apppreciate his/their work.
I love your writing style. This blog post resonates with me because it reminds me that we need more peace in our lives and I think it’s beautifully written. I’m sharing it. . Keep going!
Gretchen,
Thank you for these words and your wonderful perspective. “I find that I learn things about myself through appreciation of the art made by others.” What a wonderful perspective and it’s so true, isn’t it? love the looking glass idea!
And, yes, I will definitely check out the artists you mentioned. Thank you for your kind words!
When I was in junior high and high school (back in the dark ages!), the comparison was who wore the “cool jeans” , drove the cool cars, had the best parties. Now it’s who has the best IG feed, the most follows, comments, likes and hearts. We just have to keep reminding ourselves that it’s all superficial really, that it’s what WE are proud of to show to the world that matters the most. I began keeping a journal full of random thoughts and stories and little gratitudes that I write in every morning in the dark before I leave for my run and I really believe that it helps keep me grounded. And actually? I get excited if even ONE person “hearts” my work! What you do matters, Summer, it really does.
Katie, it’s so true, isn’t it? The way the comparisons have changed? I wonder what the “thing” will be for Meghan’s kids? Or Meadows? I love the gratitude journal and agree that it makes a world of difference to pause in the day and soak in all there for which to feel grateful.
I appreciate you very much, Kate. It feels like you’ve always been there–a quiet and fierce voice paving the way down the road just a tiny bit before me. Thank you for all you do and for the wisdom you share.