“Even the simplest weed holds us in awe of it’s creation.”
I have had my hands in and out of arts and crafts ever since I was a child, although more in, than out! When I was small my mother made all of my clothes, and I thought she was amazing, and I felt very special wearing her creations. My grandmother was a seamstress, and I was completely fascinated with all the pretty dresses she was making or altering for someone. As I got into high school I began sewing for myself, which was the thing to do in those days, as most of my friends also liked to sew. We would spend hours in the fabric store after school, enthralled with all the beautiful fabrics, and looking for the perfect simplicity pattern. Do kids do that now days?
I don’t think so.
My mom was not too thrilled with some of my picks, but she did not discourage me. She would just make gentle suggestions.
My love of creating continued to lure me into other arts and crafts. After I was married, my creativity expanded into my home, with frilly curtains, macrame’, crocheting, decoupage, and clothes for my kids. I have dabbled in just about every craft. I think most creative people have had their hands in many of the different arts. I play with photography, and digital painting, and I love to write beautiful, inspirational words.
My problem is that I don’t think I have found my niche yet. My daughter and I have started an Etsy shop together, since she also shares the passion for handmade, and is extremely creative. I find myself looking at all the wonderful shops, and all of that creativity that is out there, somewhat overwhelms me. I know I am creative, but I don’t know where to focus my time and energy. I want to do everything! I am trying to find my “sweet creative spot.” What really inspires me? What makes me feel proud and excited? I have a bad habit of getting easily distracted when the next “cool thing” comes along, or something that I haven’t tried yet.
I really want to perfect my talents in a chosen area, but the question remains, “what area?” Should it be something that comes easy to me, or something that constantly challenges me? Should it be something that sells well, or something that just satisfies my creative aspirations? Should I consider whether there is a market for it? These are questions that I am trying to answer as I take this journey in the sea of creativity.
It’s a journey I am truly enjoying, even though I am not sure of the destination. Some of my suggested navigation tools for your creative journey:
- Don’t create for others, create for yourself.
- Create with passion and love.
- Don’t make money the object of your creations. If the passion is there, the money will follow.
- Always give everything you’ve got to whatever you are working on.
- Remember art is personal, and what appeals to one person, may not appeal to someone else.
- You are usually your own harshest critic.
- Take a break when you are frustrated. Recharge doing something else, preferably a moment of relaxation.
And last, but not least: There are no rules to being creative, just have fun!
If you have any other navigation tools for this journey that you would like to share, please feel free to add your comments.
Thanks,
Bonnie
“Even the simplest weed holds us in awe of it’s creation.”
