Joy is not a crumb
“Don’t be afraid of its plenty. Joy is not made to be a crumb.” ~ Mary Oliver
I took myself on an artist date recently, a practice extolled by the author Julia Cameron in her book ‘The Artist’s Way’. Artist dates are done alone, and are meant to sort of restore creativity by experiencing something new. After meeting up with a friend for coffee, I made my way to some new and familiar places. One of those being the gorgeous conservatory at Como Park. I’ve been there many times, but it never fails to surprise and delight. As I descended the stairs to the sunken garden, a group was standing at the far end. I recalled a photo I had taken years prior of my dad standing with my kids in the very spot where that family was now gathered. My youngest’s nose was yellow with pollen, and I remember my dad chuckling at the enthusiastic flower-sniffing. I was grateful for the memory as I wandered through and out the doors to the Japanese garden. I stopped to admire the fruit trees, bromeliads, and ferns. The bonsai, as always, completely captivated me as did the giant lily pads floating in the water. The sun was shining and I could walk at my own pace, enjoying each plant without hurry. For all the troubles in the world and in our lives, to be surrounded by such an astounding number of tiny joys in one place was overwhelming in the best possible way. I keep looking back at the pictures I took and I can feel that happiness in my chest, still.
There were, of course a hundred different tasks that called my name from home, but that day I answered my own desire for joy. And I’m glad.
Workshops!
On the calendar right now:
Spooky needle felted ghosts - Tuesday, Oct. 20 6:00-8:00pm
My buddy Chase and I are putting the final touches on a Full Moon lighted sculpture class that is going to be out of this world! Right now the class is tentatively set for Monday, Oct. 26th, time TBD. Keep an eye on my shop page for tickets.
Fall Mixed Media Weaving workshop with Patricia Lintner - Saturday, Nov. 14th, 10:30-1:30 - register on Patricia’s website
Events
Our Second Thursday Art Club is CANCELLED for this month. I will be helping at a Kindness Event at Forestview Middle School that same night, but never fear, we will reschedule the squeegee art project for November.
Saturday, October 17th I’ll once again be making buttons with our young friends at the Coats for Kids distribution event at Westgate Mall.
We’re having some spooky fun on Thursday Oct. 22nd in the studio so stop in for an inclusive, welcoming, and free event.
Don’t let the road construction scare ya. You can still access the Franklin Arts Center and my studio by parking in the lot on Kingwood and entering through the South Door. 1001 Kingwood, Brainerd, Suite 101 with the red door.
I am so grateful for your support and cheers. Thanks for helping this lil fish swim.
