Who knows where our fascinations will lead? When Carloyn went to Asia, she brought back a large collection of Asian papers, and saved them, with no idea what she wanted to do with them. Caroylyn is a weaver, but it wasn't until about ten years ago--at about age 70--that this inspiration hit her. Needing a new theme for an upcoming show, that she decided to cut the papers into strips and weave with them. Her resulting work has a dimension not found in any other artist's work. I wish you could see the tiny Chinese characters on the paper "threads" that give this work it's unique quality.
It's good for me to keep this in mind, as I develop my own work, wondering where it will end up, where to focus my energy. Silk paintings for the wall? Home decor? Wearable art? Illustration? I feel as lost as I did in February. I wake up in the night wondering "what AM I supposed to be doing? How does my work feed the world? How can it feed me?"
Does anyone else have these questions gnawing at them?
Love this story about the artist. It is hopeful. I'm feeling a little lost too and asking the same questions. You are DEFINITELY not alone. It is easy to feel that way though! In addition to my own uncertainties, my studio has been invaded by mice, and I'm afraid to go in there! Yuck. I'm not sure when I'm going to paint again:)
ReplyDeleteIf you are in the process of moving, AND have mice in the studio, it's no wonder you have some uncertainties! Moving alone discombobulates me until about three weeks or more after I get settled into my new place.
ReplyDeletemay I suggest tiptoing into your studio and grabbing a sketch book and some markers to bring into the bedroom or anywhere else you can sit and scribble?
I haven't seen Carolyn Dyer in many many years. Is she still living on Vaschon Island? I had a store in South Pasadena named Sonnie's.
ReplyDeleteCarolyn just passed away on Tuesday in Santa Cruz Ca. at the age of 84. It is so nice to see her work celebrated here.
ReplyDeleteThank you for letting me know. I will miss her. Somehow just knowing she was out there inspired me.
DeleteHello again, Carolyn was my mother in law. I am married to her oldest son Phil and we live in Southern Ca. She was a prolific artist and we have a lot of her work in our garage that we would like to empty. It deserves to be seen and enjoyed. Any suggestions in this matter will be taken into consideration. My personal email is gloriajean46@gmail.com I look forward to hearing from you.
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