As debates are waged about the direction of our economy, our country and indeed our personal lives, we are still tasked with living in the present moment and day to day. Artists are independent by nature and by necessity. Sometime, we bow to the pressure of the need for sales and the opinions of both our patrons and of other artists, critics and people who think they know better than the artist how the work should be created, presented and priced. But we each strive to rise above those pressures and remain TRUE to our vision.
A good day is one where we can let all of the outside voices fall away. On those days, the work flows from the finger tips and magic happens. As you sink into your work, everything fades and nothing exists but you and the work. Time stops and the work begins to lead the way and in the end the piece has spoken about how it wants to manifest. This is the moment that artists live for -- the instant when art happens. Everything else is preparation, technique and inspiration. And that can only happen in the independent space where there is nothing but you and the work.
So as we celebrate our independence this 4th of July, remember that we practice independence every day when we step through the doors of our studios. I give gratitude for my life and for being born in the USA... where we have the freedom of expression... the freedom to produce and prosper... the freedom to live independently in the ways we are each inspired.
As my last day in Birmingham draws near, my memories of my time with all of you become more precious than ever! I feel so blessed to have been a part of " The Strays". I take with me a renewed joy of creativity, and a circle of inspiring friends who will forever resonate in my heart!