Wednesday, September 12, 2012

regrouping



A series of small mishaps set me off course this week. I planned to apply for a couple of big events, with rapidly approaching deadlines, and worked diligently to make it all come together. Unexpected, last minute issues with two of the pieces, made me realize that it was impossible to finish the work, and have it photographed before the deadline.

Once the frustration died down, I took a big breath and started thinking about my goals, ambitions, and expectations on a larger scale. And my conclusion is that I need to slow things down rather that speed things up. My youngest son is a high school junior and I want to be there for his soccer games, music performances, and soon to start college searches. I want to see my friends more often, and spend an afternoon now and then with my husband. I want more time to care for for my garden and my house.



I love my work. I can't imagine life without textiles, stitching, and making. But I am the first to admit that more often than not, it becomes all-consuming. I think that is what defines an artist - the constant drive for perfection and the unwillingness to stop or take a break.

So the stress and turbulence of this week have a happy ending. Instead of fretting over my show applications, I am cleaning and organizing the studio while listening to music, and enjoying the sunshine outside my window. Tomorrow I will work on new books, and in the next few days I will return to the pesky quilts that made it all grind to a halt.



15 comments:

  1. Bravo! The latter path sounds far more expansive...

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  2. Lotta, I am so with you on this.
    In fact tomorrow atrarts a new period of slowness. Cheers.

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  3. It is so hard to find a balance between work, family and your passion. Your post struck a real chord with me as I currently have way more on my plate than I should have. Thanks for the uplifting words!

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  5. try again: soon enough the youngest will fledge, and there will be a bit more time. attention to family and the real work of your being means precarious balance.

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  6. Applause, Lotta, for your clear prioritization. -sus

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  7. + time to take wonderful contemplative pix here for us to enjoy ..

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  8. I completely relate to this! Balancing time with my family with my creativity is an ongoing challenge. I crave both in equal measure. You sound like you've got a good handle on this, and I will bookmark your words to encourage me to do the same, thank you!

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  9. I could feel your disappointment when I read your post. I admire you for turning it around and moving forward.

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  10. slow down...enjoy it
    this is a phrase i have posted at my drawing table
    there will be other shows : )
    xo, j

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  11. planning something similar...about mid-December when work winds up for the year

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  12. Whatever you decide will be ok. The decision is made from heart. So carry it out.
    Good luck, and enjoy!

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  13. The work you are producing is stunning, but slowing down to appreciate your life as well as your processes is so important.

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  14. Found time (and found life time) is quite nice.

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