This Blooming Business

I am a member of the September 2013 e-course Bloom True class, taught by Flora Bowley.  We (the other students and I) have continued to share our work and encourage each other in both art and life.  As we approach the two year mark for starting the Bloom True journey, I have some recent insights to share.

Change is messy.  Growing is hard.  And "blooming", the process of unfolding, can be a hairy business.  Like this poppy flower that begins as as a fuzzy, muted pod, we often begin a transformation in a less, shall we say attractive, state.  Caterpillars and all that.

When we do finally transform, it may not be what we thought.  Stuff happens along the way (draughts, slugs, negligent waterers) that shape the outcome.  

We can embrace this different outcome, marvel in its unexpectedness, or stay home and cry.  

I choose to marvel.

Artist Seeks Inspiration, Finds it at Museum of Glass

Yesterday my daughter and I found ourselves in Tacoma, WA with an hour's time to fill.  Thanks to the Blue Star Museums program, we were able to spend it enjoying the treasures at the Museum of Glass.   We began our approach across the bridge of glass, featuring many stunning example of glasswork along the sides and even overhead (sunshine + colored glass = awesome!).  We then wound down the stairs past waterworks featuring more glass sculptures.  Once inside, we watch the artisans crafting pieces that would eventually make their way into the museum shop.  

We only had time for one gallery, but as you can see from the photos, inspiration was everywhere!  The pieces we saw showcased color, design, pattern, and form.  No matter the medium, all artists speak the same language!

Back in the Studio

The sun has arrived!

After being gone for two weeks I am finally back home among my familiars.