December Updates
Happy new year!
Winter has certainly had its way with us this year. Our annual supply swap meeting in January was attended by a few stalwart members who braved the snow and cold to gather in Rich Maxwell’s studio to exchange art supplies and conversation. Because not all neighborhoods were sufficiently plowed out on that day, we have decided to make our February meeting a lollapalooza of a gathering that will include not only the planned new member welcome with show and tell, but also a catch-up opportunity to exchange art supplies you no longer need. please join us on Wednesday, February 25, at 7 pm at St. George’s church in Ardmore for this epic event. New members and long-time members are invited to bring an artwork (completed or in-process) to share your craft with the group. We will also be serving pizza and drinks, so make this a dinner meeting!
Wintertime can be gray and dreary. I have heard people say that the weather brings on the doldrums; I have certainly experienced that myself. The simplest, most productive solution for the winter blahs that has been suggested to me is to create, to immerse myself in my process and trust the process to carry me through the circumstances.
Last week I was working on a painting that has been requested for an upcoming exhibit. My idea was stunning, my plan was well thought out, my preparations were spot on. Alas, the execution did not wow me. I was forced to admit that not all ideas translate well to the canvas. I checked back the next day and confirmed that this was not a piece I would be proud of. However, seeing the failed canvas prompted a new idea, and I set to work. At the end of my studio session, I was looking at a work that I am happy to sign my name to and submit to the exhibit. And I was reminded that sometimes the only way out is through. Scott Adams, of Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy fame, gives us this month’s quote: “Creativity is allowing yourself to make mistakes. Art is knowing which ones to keep.” Here’s to making mistakes that will guide you through the winter doldrums!
Cheers,
Brian Middleton, President
We have a Facebook group just for HGC Members!
This is a private group for the Artist Members of the Haverford Guild of Craftsmen to meet and discuss their work, marketing tactics and to give and receive general business and artwork advice. To join us, please go to: https://www.facebook.com/groups/hgcartistmembers/