Creative One, What Are You Searching For?
can I help you find it?
Since you are reading this, I imagine you and I are pretty similar. We both like to make stuff. Most likely you have a stash, maybe as big as (or bigger!) than mine. Chances are you aspire and strive to be a better, happier person. And, as a result, you are always in search of ways to help you do that, right? Hello, Creative one, what are you searching for?
Most of the time your searching is in the form of scrolling or reading -Instagram, books, Facebook, blogs, art that touches your soul, and more. You are searching for that something that resonates deep down, something you can use, that brings you happiness, a feeling of satisfaction or completeness.
What exactly are you searching for?
You know it when you chance upon it, which is never as often as you would like, is it? So the search continues.
Sometimes I get restless and the need to search, the pull, becomes so strong. I search whenever I have the time and sometimes I just MAKE the time – Pinterest, magazines, books – I do love a good book, fiction or non.
And then I stop and remember.
I am again on a search for myself! Yet, as many times as I’ve found myself, I seem to always forget where to look. Why do I go seeking elsewhere when the very thing I desire can only come from my heart, my soul, my hands?
Do you forget where to look, too?
It’s like the old saying, it’s right where you left it. It’s no coincidence that I start the search when I have some time on my hands.
I am searching for something because I am not creating something – beauty, meaning, memories, a moment. A cause, an effect, art.
I need constant reminding that life isn’t about searching for what you believe is missing in your life. I figure since I’m always forget that tidbit of wisdom that perhaps you are, too.
What is missing is the act of creation.
When we create we are whole. We are complete. We are doing exactly what we were created to do. It is in the making of our art that we become whole.
Life isn’t about finding yourself.
Life is about creating yourself.
~ George Bernard Shaw
I want to share the one thing that got me on the track to finding my voice back in 2001.
After years of searching (even before Instagram and Pinterest!), I was on the edge of desperation. What could I do to fill the big whole inside my heart and soul. I knew I needed to be creating something, but what? Finally I thought to ask myself, “What is it about other people’s art that attracts me, not just my attention, but lights my soul?” I was able to narrow it down to three things - fabric, photos and words. I began with those three elements and have created over 1000 fabric collages since that lightbulb moment.
If you are looking for inspiration or focus, do a deep dive on that question, “What is it about other people’s art that attracts you?” Find those 3 things and then ask why you like each item. Then ask again, and again, and again. Dive deep. Is it a color or juxtaposition of 2 colors? Is it graphic or floral, rusty or sleek? Large or small? Cluttered or simple? Hard against soft? Line vs shape? Words, figures, flowers or animals? Photography, drawing, print or collage?
Narrow it down. Look for clues in your own stash - not everything you’ve gathered over the last 12 years but the things you keep lovingly looking at. The answers have been with you all along. Right under your nose, actually….the answers are in your heart.
Quotes of the Week
What if all the wisdom we need comes from the depths of our own hearts?
Liz Childs Kelly
The wonderful and terrifying point of it all is that expression of your authentic voice takes courage.
Ian Roberts
A timely reminder - thank you! Once upon a time I commented to a wise woman that I “needed a project”. She suggested that I take on myself as a “project”. Forty years later, here I am. . . an eternal UFO(!) - exploring, experimenting, and (mostly) enjoying adventures in art/life. I frequently return to two favorite quotes: “I am out with lanterns looking for myself.” (Emily Dickinson) and “When our eyes see our hands doing the work of our hearts, the circle of Creation is completed inside us. The doors of our souls fly open and love steps forth to heal everything in sight.” (Michael Bridges)
Thank you for this post, Lesley. Like you, I am in a transition phase with my artwork. This weekend I continued divesting myself of the UFOs that have been nagging at me, taking Marie Kondo’s advice and keeping only what sparks joy. I’ve been selling and donating the fabric, notions, supplies and books that I know are not part of the trajectory that I’m on now. I’ve worked in many different mediums over the years, and I find myself always returning to textiles, fiber, and paper in some way. I am working on how I can combine them into something new. Using your questions as a writing exercise will help me clarify where I’m going with my creative practice. I have a vague image swirling around in my brain that needs to be coaxed out and given life. Starting with a deep dive into why I am attracted to certain pieces of art is a good place to start as I continue making space for the creative work that I am meant to do.